What is a Mental Health disorder

...Until the society understands how the stigma and discriminations affects and fuels negative attitudes about mental health problems, then will stop the cycle, the use of labels, the myths and the reality behind the misconceptions.

....Despite the current health care ‘revolution,’ mental health disorders still remain shrouded in myth or mystery, perpetuating stigma and discrimination against people who have them.”
—Former U.S. First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

...Everyone knows it is wrong to discriminate against people because of their race, religion, culture, or appearance. However, they are less aware of how people with mental illnesses are discriminated against. Although such discrimination may not always be obvious, it exists and it hurts. People with mental health disorders continue to experience prejudice and discrimination in every area of their lives, from finding somewhere to live to getting a job. It is hardly surprising that many people with serious mental health disorders end up poor or homeless. Stigma and discrimination prevent them from getting the treatment and support they need to lead healthy, normal lives.

...TO REDUCE STIGMA, THE FOLLOWING IS REQUIRED:

..• Promote community education and participation.
..• Individuals need to have goodd will and courage to stop others whenever discrimination occurs or when mean names or labels are used to describe or refer to someone who has a mental health disorder.
..• Erroneous ideas should be eliminated so as to put an end to myths and to promote the fact that mental health problems are common and that minor and severe disorders can be treated and kept under control during the recovery period.

Words Can Heal and Help End

the Stigma and Discrimination

that Surround Mental Health Disorders

Surgeon General David Satcher called on America to tear down the barriers of prejudice that block access to services and recovery. We can achieve this by putting into practice the following:

• Empower yourself with the facts, and then use your knowledge to educate others and reach out to those around you with mental health disorders. The media also offers hope for eradicating stigma because of its power to educate and influence public opinion.
• Think and value a person for his/her content. Avoid labeling people by their diagnosis. Instead of saying, "She's a schizophrenic," say, "She has a mental health disorder." Never use the term "mentally ill", ”crazy” , or “loco”.
• A person with a mental health disorder is not at fault, but everyone can and should seek and give help.
• Treat people with the dignity and respect we all deserve. People who have mental health disorders may include your friends, your neighbors, and your family.
• Understanding and support are powerful tools. They can make a difference in the life of a person who needs them.

...Until the society understands how the stigma and discriminations affects and fuels negative attitudes about mental health problems, then will stop the cycle, the use of labels, the myths and the reality behind the misconceptions.

--> Fortunately, Stigma Can Be Reduced

Salud+HealthInfo is for information and educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned abut your health or that of a child, please consult your family's physician or health provider immediately and do not try to diagnose yourself. Salud+Health Info is published and distributed free of charge by Info Option Network (ION) Publishing Company. Copyright © 2001-2008 Info Option Network

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