Abstract

In this paper the problem of mental health and its disorders are discussed. In the discussion of health, human rights, and equality, mental impairment and mental health treatment have been overlooked. This is intriguing considering that 10% of the world's population suffers from mental impairments, which are widespread. In addition, people with mental disabilities often endure numerous interconnected layers of unfairness and prejudice in society. Formal equality initiatives should not be made in isolation from attempts to establish substantive equality for people with mental disorders. Structures like poverty, inequality, homelessness, and prejudice raise the likelihood of mental illness and have a detrimental influence on the progression and results of such illnesses. Respecting people with mental impairments' intrinsic dignity, their personal autonomy and independence, and their right to make their own decisions is a human rights approach to mental disability. Mental disability and mental health care have received little attention in discussions of health, human rights, and equality. Affects 10% of the world's population. People with mental disorders also frequently experience several linked levels of injustice and prejudice in society. Initiatives for formal equality should not be taken separately from efforts to achieve substantive equality for those with mental illnesses. Structures like poverty, inequality, homelessness, and bigotry elevate the risk of mental illness and have a deleterious impact on the course and outcomes of such disorders. A human rights-based approach to mental disability recognizes the inherent dignity, personal autonomy, and independence of persons with mental disabilities as well as their right to make their own decisions. Last but not least, I contend that individuals with mental impairments themselves should be at the forefront of advocacy movements and the establishment of the advocacy agenda. I acknowledge that health care professionals have a role to play as advocates for equality, non-discrimination, and justice.

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