The problem of stigma in mental
health in connected to the
problem of human rights. Mental
health professionals,
psychiatrists included, display
stigmatization of people with
mental disorders mostly through
social distance, even though
they have "politically correct"
opinions about their patients.
Negative beliefs and attitudes
in psychiatric profession should
be opposed because of their
important influence on public
opinion, opinion of patients'
themselves and of their family
members.
The "disabling environment"
formed through discriminative
practices in all society levels
can be improved through mental
health policy documents and
plans that involve clear human
rights protection premises,
resource allocation and
development priorities in line
with international standards.
Slovenia invests at least 80% of
mental health budget in
psychiatric hospitals and social
care institutions, which employ
90% of psychiatrists.
Redirection of these resources to local
level, together with reallocation of human
resources, should improve attitudes of
mental health workers towards people with
mental problems, because of timely,
effective and needs-led approach that
enables recovery.
P R O G R A M
