Experiences of mental health discrimination in New Zealand.
Discrimination against people with experience of mental illness is a recognised problem, and there is a lack of information in New Zealand regarding the nature of this discrimination. The Like Minds, Like Mine project is a New Zealand initiative to combat the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness. This paper reports on a study undertaken as part of this initiative, and describes the nature of discrimination that people with experience of mental illness face in New Zealand. A written survey was undertaken with people with experience of mental illness from throughout New Zealand, using a mixture of qualitative and quantitative questions. This questionnaire was distributed throughout the country in 2003, using a variety of distribution methods, and 785 responses were received and analysed from people self-identifying as having experienced mental illness. Respondents reported discrimination in all areas of their lives. The most commonly reported areas were discrimination by friends and family (59%), a fear of being discriminated against (46%), and discrimination in looking for employment (34%) and mental health services (34%). Discrimination can limit the participation of people with experience of mental illness in our society. We all need to examine our own attitudes and behaviours and take responsibility for discrimination.
Peterson
Deborah
D
Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand, Wellington, New Zealand. debbiep@mentalhealth.org.nz
Pere
Lynne
L
Sheehan
Nancy
N
Surgenor
Gael
G
D000328:Adult; D004651:Employment / Q000523:psychology; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006798:Housing; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000208:ethnology / Q000523:psychology*; D008605:Mental Health Services; D008875:Middle Aged; D009520:New Zealand; D016487:Parenting / Q000523:psychology; D011287:Prejudice