October 7, 2008

Resource Center to Promote Acceptance, Dignity, and Social Inclusion Associated with Mental Health

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Center for Mental Health Services write in this report that prejudice and discrimination are major barriers to recovery for people who have mental health problems. Prejudice and discrimination can reduce access to resources and opportunities, contribute to feelings of low self-esteem, isolation, and hopelessness, and impact access to housing, employment, and community participation.

This report describes how recovery is a journey of healing and transformation enabling a person with a mental health problem to live a meaningful life in a community of his or her choice while striving to achieve full potential. The purpose of this document is to enhance social acceptance and inclusion by ensuring that people with mental health problems can live full, productive lives within communities without fear of prejudice and discrimination.