Understanding Mental Health as a Disability in a Capitalistic Ableist Society Mental
"Mental health is just as important as physical health, and I hope we start seeing it that way. We need to stop the stigma and be more open about the struggles we face." — Taraji P. Henson,
Introduction
In our ongoing series highlighting disability awareness and pride, we turn our focus to mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. These conditions are often misunderstood and stigmatized, particularly in a capitalistic, ableist society that prioritizes productivity and economic output over individual well-being. This article explores how these mental health conditions are perceived, the systemic barriers that exacerbate their impact, and the importance of reframing our approach to mental health to foster a more inclusive and supportive society.
The Ableist Perspective on Mental Health
In a society that values constant productivity and views success through the lens of economic contributions, mental health conditions are often seen as liabilities. This perspective is deeply rooted in the same supremacy culture that marginalizes neurodiversity. Let's examine how the pillars of supremacy culture manifest in the context of mental health:
Perfectionism:
The relentless pursuit of flawless performance leaves no room for natural fluctuations in mental health. Those experiencing depression, anxiety, or PTSD may struggle to meet unrealistic standards, leading to further marginalization and self-criticism.
Sense of Urgency:
The demand for quick results and immediate responses can be overwhelming for individuals with mental health conditions, who may need more time to process information and complete tasks. This urgency often exacerbates anxiety and stress.
Defensiveness:
Organizations and individuals may resist acknowledging the impact of mental health conditions, viewing them as excuses rather than legitimate challenges. This defensiveness hinders open discussions about mental health and the implementation of supportive practices.
Quantity Over Quality:
Emphasizing the amount of work produced over its quality and impact can lead to burnout and worsen mental health conditions. The focus on metrics often overlooks the valuable contributions of those with mental health conditions.
Worship of the Written Word:
Prioritizing formal, written communication can be challenging for individuals with conditions like depression or PTSD, who may find it difficult to articulate their thoughts in traditional formats.
Only One Right Way:
The belief in a single correct approach to work and problem-solving disregards the diverse ways in which individuals with mental health conditions can contribute effectively.
Paternalism:
Decision-making without input from those affected by mental health conditions perpetuates a lack of understanding and appropriate accommodations.
Either/Or Thinking:
Reducing complex mental health issues to binary choices (e.g., productive vs. unproductive) oversimplifies the experiences of those with mental health conditions and undermines their contributions.
Power Hoarding:
Concentrating power among a few individuals can limit the implementation of inclusive practices that support mental health.
Fear of Open Conflict:
Avoiding uncomfortable conversations about mental health prevents meaningful progress and the development of supportive environments.
Individualism:
The emphasis on self-sufficiency neglects the importance of community support and collective well-being, which are crucial for individuals with mental health conditions.
Progress is Bigger, More:
Equating success with constant growth and expansion overlooks the need for balance and sustainability, which are essential for mental health.
Objectivity:
Dismissing the subjective experiences of those with mental health conditions as invalid ignores the profound impact of emotional and psychological struggles.
Right to Comfort:
Prioritizing the comfort of those without mental health conditions can suppress important conversations and the voices of those who need support.
I’m the Only One:
The belief that one is the only capable person undermines collaborative efforts and the potential contributions of individuals with mental health conditions.
To gain a deeper understanding of these pillars, there impact and actionable steps to dismantle them, consider my eBook “Dismantling Supremacy Culture: Understanding and Overcoming Its 15 Pillars”
Reframing Mental Health as an Asset
To challenge the ableist view of mental health conditions, we must recognize the strengths and perspectives that individuals with these conditions bring to the table. Here’s how we can reframe mental health as an asset:
1. Emotional Intelligence: Individuals with mental health conditions often develop heightened empathy and emotional intelligence, which are invaluable for building strong, supportive relationships and teams.
2. Resilience: Living with depression, anxiety, or PTSD requires significant resilience and adaptability. These qualities can enhance problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate complex challenges.
3. Diverse Perspectives: Mental health conditions can offer unique insights and perspectives that contribute to innovative thinking and creative solutions. Valuing these perspectives can lead to more comprehensive and effective outcomes.
4. Advocacy and Empathy: Individuals who have experienced mental health challenges often become strong advocates for mental health awareness and support, fostering a more compassionate and inclusive environment.
Creating Supportive Environments
Educational Settings:
Mental Health Education: Incorporate mental health education into the curriculum to reduce stigma and promote understanding.
Support Services: Provide accessible mental health support services, such as counseling and peer support groups.
Workplaces:
Flexible Work Arrangements: Allow flexible schedules and remote work options to accommodate varying mental health needs.
Mental Health Policies: Implement policies that support mental health, such as mental health days and access to therapy and counseling.
Open Dialogue: Foster an environment where employees feel safe discussing mental health and seeking support.
Social and Community Settings:
Inclusive Activities: Plan community activities that consider the needs of individuals with mental health conditions.
Awareness Campaigns: Conduct campaigns to raise awareness about mental health and reduce stigma within the community.
Practical Steps to Foster Acceptance and Support
Promote Mental Health Awareness:
Conduct workshops and training sessions to educate others about mental health and its impact.
Share stories and experiences of individuals with mental health conditions to highlight their contributions and challenges.
Encourage Advocacy:
Support individuals with mental health conditions in advocating for their needs and rights.
Create platforms for their voices to be heard and valued in decision-making processes.
Develop Inclusive Policies:
Implement policies that ensure equitable access to mental health resources and support.
Regularly review and update policies to address any emerging needs or gaps in inclusivity.
Workplace Success Stories
Inclusive Initiatives: SAP's Comprehensive Mental Health Resources
One inspiring example of a corporation leading the way in mental health support is SAP, a global leader in enterprise software solutions. SAP has developed a robust mental health support program that offers comprehensive resources to its employees, demonstrating a commitment to their well-being and fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.
SAP's Mental Health Initiatives
1. On-Site Counseling:
SAP provides on-site counseling services to its employees, offering immediate and accessible mental health support. This initiative ensures that employees have access to professional help without the barriers of cost or time.
2. Mental Health Days:
Recognizing the importance of taking time off to address mental health needs, SAP offers mental health days to its employees. These days allow individuals to take necessary breaks to manage stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns without stigma or penalty.
3. Wellness Programs:
SAP has implemented a variety of wellness programs aimed at promoting overall health and well-being. These programs include stress management workshops, mindfulness training, physical fitness activities, and nutritional guidance. By addressing the holistic health of employees, SAP supports both their physical and mental well-being.
4. Mental Health Awareness and Training:
The company also invests in mental health awareness and training programs for all employees. These programs aim to reduce stigma, educate employees about mental health, and equip managers with the tools to support their teams effectively.
5. Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
SAP's EAP provides confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families. This program covers a wide range of issues, including stress, depression, family problems, and financial concerns, ensuring comprehensive support for various aspects of life that can impact mental health.
Impact and Benefits
SAP's mental health support program has led to significant positive outcomes for both employees and the company:
1. Increased Employee Satisfaction:
Employees report higher levels of job satisfaction and morale due to the availability of mental health resources. Knowing that their employer prioritizes their mental well-being fosters a sense of loyalty and engagement.
2. Improved Productivity:
By addressing mental health proactively, SAP has seen improvements in employee productivity. Employees who feel supported are more likely to perform better, take fewer sick days, and contribute positively to the workplace culture.
3. Reduced Stigma:
SAP's commitment to mental health has helped to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues in the workplace. Open discussions and visible support systems encourage employees to seek help when needed.
4. Enhanced Recruitment and Retention:
The company's comprehensive mental health program is a key factor in attracting and retaining top talent. Prospective and current employees value the emphasis on well-being and the supportive work environment.
SAP's mental health support program serves as a powerful example of how corporations can prioritize mental health and well-being, leading to increased employee satisfaction and productivity. By offering on-site counseling, mental health days, wellness programs, and comprehensive support services, SAP demonstrates the value of supportive practices in creating a thriving and inclusive workplace.
Mental Health Inclusion at Home: Honoring the Spectrum and Fluctuations of Capacity
Mental health is not a static state but a dynamic spectrum that fluctuates over time. Recognizing and honoring this fluctuation is crucial for creating an inclusive and supportive home environment. As a trauma-informed decolonization educator and counselor, I emphasize the concept of capacity—understanding and respecting each individual's varying ability to manage their mental health at any given time. When we focus on capacity and providing practical strategies we are more inclined to support one another through the highs and lows of mental health.
Understanding Capacity
Capacity refers to an individual's ability to cope with and manage their mental health and daily responsibilities. This capacity can vary greatly depending on numerous factors, including stress levels, physical health, life circumstances, and the nature of one's mental health condition. Recognizing these variations is key to fostering an environment that is both supportive and inclusive.
Mental Health Inclusion at Home: Honoring Capacity
Creating a mentally inclusive home environment requires recognizing that mental health is a spectrum and that individuals' capacity to manage their mental health fluctuates. Here are some strategies to honor this reality and support mental health inclusion at home:
1. Open Communication:
Foster a culture of open and honest communication about mental health. Encourage family members to share their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. This openness helps to build a supportive environment where everyone feels heard and understood.
2. Flexibility and Adaptability:
Recognize that mental health needs can change day by day. Be flexible with expectations and adaptable in your approach to household responsibilities and activities. Allow space for family members to adjust their roles and contributions based on their current capacity.
3. Establish Routines and Rituals:
Consistent routines can provide a sense of stability and predictability, which is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing mental health fluctuations. Establish daily or weekly rituals that promote well-being, such as family meals, exercise, or relaxation time.
4. Encourage Self-Care:
Promote self-care practices that support mental health, such as mindfulness, exercise, adequate sleep, and healthy eating. Encourage family members to prioritize self-care and provide opportunities for them to engage in activities that nourish their mental well-being.
5. Create a Safe and Supportive Environment:
Ensure that the home environment is physically and emotionally safe for everyone. This includes creating spaces for quiet reflection, relaxation, and privacy. A supportive environment also involves validating each family member's feelings and experiences.
6. Recognize and Respect Boundaries:
Understanding and respecting personal boundaries is crucial. Encourage family members to express their limits and needs, and honor these boundaries to ensure that everyone feels safe and respected.
7. Provide Resources and Education:
Equip your household with resources and educational materials about mental health. Understanding the spectrum of mental health conditions can foster empathy and better support for one another.
8. Celebrate Small Victories:
Acknowledge and celebrate the small victories and progress in managing mental health. Recognizing these achievements can boost morale and encourage continued efforts in self-care and support.
9. Practice Patience and Compassion:
Be patient and compassionate with yourself and others. Mental health is a journey, and everyone's capacity will fluctuate. Compassionate understanding helps to create a nurturing and inclusive home environment.
The Relationship with Self and Mental Health Capacity
Understanding one's own mental health capacity is fundamental to managing well-being effectively. This involves a continuous process of self-reflection and self-awareness. Here are some ways to cultivate a healthy relationship with yourself and your mental health capacity:
1. Self-Awareness:
Regularly check in with yourself to gauge your mental health status. Recognize the signs that indicate when you are nearing your capacity limit and need to take a step back.
2. Self-Compassion:
Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a loved one. Acknowledge your struggles without self-judgment and allow yourself to rest when needed.
3. Set Realistic Goals:
Set achievable and realistic goals that align with your current mental health capacity. Avoid overcommitting yourself and understand that it’s okay to adjust your goals based on how you feel.
4. Mindfulness and Reflection:
Engage in mindfulness practices that help you stay present and attuned to your mental state. Reflect on your experiences and identify patterns that affect your mental health.
5. Seek Support:
Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. Sharing your experiences with others can provide relief and additional perspectives on managing your mental health.
6. Create a Personal Mental Health Plan:
Develop a personal mental health plan that includes coping strategies, self-care routines, and a list of supportive contacts. This plan can serve as a guide during times when your capacity is lower.
Community Spotlight: Taraji P. Henson
"Mental health is just as important as physical health, and I hope we start seeing it that way. We need to stop the stigma and be more open about the struggles we face." — Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson, a celebrated actress and mental health advocate, has made significant strides in raising awareness and support for mental health, particularly within the Black community. Through her personal experiences and advocacy work, she has become a powerful voice in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the importance of mental wellness.
Personal Journey and Advocacy
1. Personal Experience:
Henson’s journey into mental health advocacy was deeply personal. She has openly discussed her own struggles with anxiety and depression, as well as the challenges her son faced following the traumatic loss of his father. These experiences highlighted the critical need for mental health resources and support, particularly within the Black community.
2. The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation:
In 2018, Taraji P. Henson founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF), named in honor of her late father who also struggled with mental health issues. The foundation's mission is to eradicate the stigma around mental health issues in the African American community and to provide support and resources to those in need.
3. Key Initiatives:
Mental Health Scholarships: The foundation provides scholarships to African American students majoring in mental health fields, helping to increase the representation of Black professionals in mental health care.
Therapy for Black Youth: BLHF offers free therapy to youth of color, providing access to much-needed mental health services that are often inaccessible due to financial barriers.
Awareness Campaigns: The foundation conducts awareness campaigns to educate the public about mental health, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversations about mental wellness.
4. Public Advocacy and Impact:
Henson uses her platform to advocate for mental health awareness in various forums, including interviews, public speaking engagements, and social media. Her candid discussions about her personal mental health journey have inspired many to seek help and talk openly about their struggles.
She has testified before Congress, advocating for increased funding and resources for mental health services, particularly those serving marginalized communities.
Impact on Mental Health Awareness
1. Reducing Stigma:
By sharing her own story and creating a foundation dedicated to mental health, Henson has significantly contributed to reducing the stigma around mental health issues, particularly within the Black community. Her efforts encourage others to seek help without shame or fear of judgment.
2. Increasing Access to Care:
Through the initiatives of the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, Henson has helped provide access to mental health care for those who might otherwise be unable to afford it. This has made a tangible difference in the lives of many individuals and families.
3. Promoting Representation:
By supporting African American students in mental health fields, Henson is helping to diversify the mental health workforce. This increased representation is crucial for providing culturally competent care and building trust within the community.
Lessons from Taraji P. Henson
1. Speak Openly:
Henson’s transparency about her mental health struggles underscores the importance of open dialogue. Speaking openly about mental health can help others feel less alone and more willing to seek support.
2. Support and Empower:
Henson’s foundation exemplifies the power of support and empowerment. By providing resources and opportunities, we can help individuals and communities thrive despite mental health challenges.
3. Advocate for Change:
Henson’s advocacy work highlights the importance of pushing for systemic change. Whether through legislative advocacy or public awareness campaigns, we can all play a role in improving mental health care and support systems.
Taraji P. Henson’s advocacy for mental health has made a profound impact, particularly within the Black community. Her dedication to reducing stigma, increasing access to care, and promoting mental wellness serves as an inspiring example of how personal experience can drive meaningful change.
Call to Action
Learn more about mental health and how you can contribute to creating supportive environments. Check out our upcoming events and resources for practical tips and strategies. Share your stories and experiences with us using #DecolonizeWithDez, and help us build a community that truly values mental health and inclusion.
Further References and Resources
Books:
"The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma" by Bessel van der Kolk
"Anxiety: The Missing Stage of Grief" by Claire Bidwell Smith
"Darkness Visible: A Memoir of Madness" by William Styron
Online Resources:
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) (www.nami.org)
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) (www.adaa.org)
PTSD Alliance (www.ptsdalliance.org)
Advocacy Organizations:
Mental Health America (MHA) (www.mhanational.org)
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) (www.dbsalliance.org)
The Trevor Project (www.thetrevorproject.org)
Conclusion
Recognizing mental health conditions as valid and important aspects of our lives is essential for dismantling the ableist and capitalist structures that marginalize these experiences. By fostering inclusive environments at home, in the workplace, within our communities, and within ourselves we can reframe mental health as an asset rather than a liability. Let us commit to creating spaces where individuals with mental health conditions feel valued and supported. Share your stories and join us in this journey towards true inclusion using #DecolonizeWithDez. Together, we can make a lasting difference.
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In solidarity and empowerment,
Another excellent article ! As a psychiatrist I thankyou for your efforts to raise awareness about and advocate for those with mental illness. With your permission I’d like to print this article and make it available to my patients.
As a reproductive psychiatrist, may I suggest adding Postpartum Support International (PSI) to your list? The organization advocates for and provides a referral network for those with peri-partum mental health challenges.