Social inclusion
It is the process of improving the terms on which individuals
and groups take part in society—improving the ability, opportunity, and dignity
of those disadvantaged on the basis of their identity. (World Bank 2017)
Social inclusion is the act of making all groups of people within a society
feel valued and important.
Social inclusion is
central to promoting mental health and minimising the disability associated
with mental illness. Social inclusion is about being able to participate in and
contribute to all aspects of a society that genuinely includes people living
with mental illness; that supports, intervenes and prevents crises; and that
does not discriminate or stigmatise. Community-based organisations are well placed
to make the principles of social inclusion real within communities. (MHCC 2017)
Community groups such as migrants and other minorities such as small tribes confront barriers that prevent them from fully
participating in their nation’s political, economic, and social life. These
groups are excluded through a number of practices ranging from stereotypes,
stigmas, and superstitions based on gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual
orientation and gender identity, or disability status. Such practices can rob
them of dignity, security, and the opportunity to lead a better life (The
World Bank, 2017). Many people with psychosis are excluded from the day to day activities within their communities as they are thought of as incapable of meaningfully contributing to the development of their community.
Address social exclusion or promote social inclusion
Anti-stigma and antidiscrimination strategies are gaining in popularity
and offer important avenues for eliminating social barriers and promoting
adequate and equitable access to care. Other strategies to promote social
inclusion include lobbying for the change in legislation
to promote social inclusion, providing community-based supports and services to
foster social inclusion at the community level.
The best way, socialize with the socially excluded groups within your community and be an example to others! Together we can make a difference in our communities!
