Mental illness is not the only reason why individuals end up on the streets, but it is s one of the lead contributing factors to homelessness

Mental illness is not the only reason why individuals end up on the streets, but it is s one of the lead contributing factors to homelessness

No one is immune from mental illness.

No one is immune from mental illness. Any person regardless of age, economic status, or race can develop a mental illness. Yet it is difficult for many of us to understand why mental health policy receives less support for government spending increases than does health care. We must recognize all the barriers that contribute to the stigmatization and discrimination of mental health.

Stigma consists of not only derogatory words or the use of negative labels; it is disrespectful to the individual who is diagnosed with a mental illness.

Stigma consists of not only derogatory words or the use of negative labels; it is disrespectful to the individual who is diagnosed with a mental illness. Stigma leads some individuals to avoid employing or living, working, or socializing with people who are known to have a mental disorder. It reduces an individual’s opportunities and access to resources such as housing and employment. Also, it leads to low self-esteem, hopelessness and isolation. Moreover, stigma deters society from participating in taking an active role in the care and cost of treatment for those with mental illnesses.

Who Makes the Empowerment Magazine?

Empowerment Magazine is published online and in print every quarter by sacpros.org, a leading mental health directory for the Greater Sacramento Region. More information on Sacpros and what it does, visit sacpros.org

Mental Health in Congress

Members of Congress should be also more open about their experiences of mental health. This could have a highly significant impact on damages from negative stereotypes

Share your Experience

Are you supporting a friend or family member in managing or overcoming their mental health problems and would you like to share your experience in the Empowerment Magazine. e-mail info@sacpros.org