There’s no quick fix for ending mental health stigma and discrimination, but now is the time to take action to build on momentum and share learning across the Commonwealth, says Sue Baker, Global Director at Time to Change.
“There is really no health without mental health. It is in the interests of all families, communities, societies and economies to address the longstanding neglect and mistreatment of people with mental health problems in our cultures and societies.”
Globally, too many people face exclusion and severe restrictions on their human rights because of their mental health problems.
One in four people around the world will experience a ‘mental or neurological disorder’ in their lifetime. Yet, nearly two-thirds of these people never seek help from a health professional. The availability of support is severely restricted – in many African sub-Saharan countries, 90 per cent of people affected have no access to treatment.
Stigma and discrimination are central to this and to the widescale violation of rights. As well as being excluded by families, friends, neighbours, employers and schools, people experience violence and abuse, inhumane treatment and even torture, just because they have a mental health problem…
Sue Baker
Global Director, Time to Change
