Behind+Blue+Eyes

Name:Rachel Pickup Student number:n8304831 Tutor: Judith Meiklejohn

**“Unity is provided to any collectivity by uniting against those who are seen as a common threat to the social order and morality of a group. Consequently, the stigma and the stigmatization of some persons demarcates a boundary that reinforces the conduct of conformists. Therefore, a collective sense of morality is achieved by the creation of stigma and stigmatization and deviance.”** Emile Durkheim, Suicide, 1897

**CULTURAL ARTIFACT **

The following YouTube video is a video retrieved from the campaign website of bringchange2mind.org, that features various mental illness sufferers and the people who support them, showing how stigma affects them and how changing someone’s mind about mental illness will create a world of change. Bring Change 2 Mind is a national anti-stigma campaign founded by Glenn Close aimed at removing misconceptions about mental illness. The idea was born out of a partnership between Glenn Close and Fountain House, where Glenn volunteered in order to learn more about mental illness, which both his sister and nephew live with. This has been developed to provide people who have misconceptions about mental illness with quick and easy access to information that combats stigma and also provide people who have mental illness, and those who know them, with quick and easy access to information and support.

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**PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE ** Controversy still exists over the consequences of an outsiders lack of insight into persons with mental illness (Hasson-Ohayon, Kravetz, Meir, Rozencwaig, 2009). Mental illness and mental health has been a major topic of discussion for centuries; however the main issue being faced in modern society by both media, current research and government is the prevalence of prejudice and stigmatisation of those with mental illness; in which those who are ignorant and intolerant wrongly stereotype the mentally ill as violent, deranged and to be feared (Guimón, 2010). Improvement of stigmatisation and attitudes have slowly improved over the years however it is obvious that many still believe mental illness is still a taboo topic that is to be feared. Campaigns already involved in anti stigmatisation include Stigma Watch in which its possible to report stigma in the media, Bring Change 2 Mind, SANE, ok2b and many more. The implementation of government policies, programs and improvement of mental health care systems in addition to extensive education on mental health for individuals will lead to a stigma free world and reduce discrimination against the mentally ill (Davidson & Leavey, 2010; Quinn, Shulman, Knifton & Byrne, 2011).

**LITERATURE **

The modern issue of discrimination and negative perceptions of mental illness and the need for equality and dignity for the mentally disabled, on par with those who are physically disabled is extremely important; with 1 in 4 people suffering from mental illness (Guimón, 2010). Current journals and media articles suggest the factors of bias media, under-developed health care systems and lack of mental health services, low socio-economical countries with lack of education; as well as lack of government reform and society itself; is reinforcing the prejudice surrounding mental illness (Davidson & Leavey, 2010; Kapungwe et al., 2010; McGorry, 2011). Australian Department of Health and Ageing (2005) suggests that society consists of respecting individuals rights yet demeaning them as a person and what humans need to prosper as a person and what they need to survive are two completely different things. For example; prisoners are clothed, fed and educated but in terms of social interaction and social needs they are demeaned by officials and disrespected as a person; with 9 out of 10 prisoners having a mental disorder (Australian Department of Health and Ageing, 2005). Even though these people have committed crimes, segregation and discrimination in no way improves there chances of recovery and actually increases chances of re offending. The notion of treating everyone the same actually creates the sense of treating everyone as an object; this idea is an inconsistency in Australian welfare which brings to question the future of government attempts to create policies that address social inequality and improve social equity for the mentally ill (Australian Department of Health and Ageing, 2005). The issue of mental health takes the same stance across both the media and public health research; in that, people with mental illness are often subject to discrimination, prejudice and stigmatisation by the negative preconceptions, ignorance and intolerance of modern society, lack of education and fear of what we don’t understand; which is often more unbearable than the mental illness itself (Henderson & Thornicroft, 2009; Guimón, 2010).

Another theory suggesting the reason for prejudice against the mentally ill and suicide is that of Emile Durkheim. Durkheim was a sociologist, who believed social cohesion, integration, solidarity and regulation where all factors and social bonds that influenced mental illness and suicide (Berkman, Brissette & Seeman, 2000). Durkheim (1933) believed that society wasn’t made of individuals, but rather a system formed by assosciations to create a new reality with specific characteristics in which the “group thinks, feels, and acts quite differently from the way in which its members would were they isolated. If, then, we begin with the individual, we shall be able to understand nothing of what takes place in the group”.He also believed that social structure and network determined individual behaviour and attitudes and therefore; social integration and cohesion influenced mortality and social cohesion and inequality influenced negative social experiences (Berkman et al., 2000). These negative social experiences, executed by society onto those who have too little social integration or too much social regulation, suggest that mental illness does not stem from a psychological foundation but rather from //social facts// and societies negative impact onto individuals (Berkman et al., 2000). Berkman et al., suggests it is possible that the social bonds in accordance with mental health issues, will provide a point to reform education and polices as well as government intervention to improve mental health systems and reduce mental illness stigma. Durkheim’s theories are in agreement with the modern day media and research articles; in that it is the social bonds and implications of fear of the unknown that further drives stigma in mental illness (Berkman et al., 2000).

**CULTURAL AND SOCIAL ANALYSIST ** In order to understand on some level how mental illness and stigma is developed we have to first understand who is most at risk and the biological, genetic and social determinants of mental illness and what people with mental illness experience in there lives; not only as an individual but on a larger scale, as part of a community. Australian Department of Health and Ageing (2005) suggests that this would then perhaps give us insight into what brings human beings together as a society and what segregates them, and also how Australians understand and deal with the mentally ill in modern society.

Whilst there is no real definition of what determines someone’s susceptibility of mental illness; there is however an abundance of studies and statistics that gives insight into possible causes, risk factors and pre dispositions to mental illness (Mayo Clinic, 2010). Such as; genetic and biological risk, viruses and poor nutrition in pregnancy linked to schizophrenia, stressful life situations, medical conditions, traumatic experiences, illicit drug use, abuse and neglect and unhealthy relationships and social experiences (Mayo Clinic, 2010). The National Institute of Mental Health (2005) (NIMH) studies show that mental illness is most prominent and occurs from the early ages of 14 onwards, increasing between 18-24 and 30-44 and then declining in the general population of the elderly. 26% of the general population will experience a mental health problem within a 12 month period. 1 in 4 people suffer from mental illness with statistics showing that 10% of children have mental health issues (NIMH, 2005). It is also commonly shown that women are more likely to be treated for mental illness.  There are also numerous studies that suggest the causes of mental illness are determined by social situations and determinants for certain groups within society. For example, the issue of homelessness is intertwined immensely with mental illness in that is both the cause and effect of mental illness (Australian Department of Health and Ageing, 2005). In low socio economical parts of Australia; lack of employment and housing as well as stigma and discrimination can increase the risk of mental illness which can lead to homelessness and furthermore encourage the original mental health issue in a cyclic manner, due to the homelessness as well as the discrimination and stigma of both mental illness and being homeless and an outcast from society (Australian Department of Health and Ageing, 2005). Studies show that one third of the homeless have a seriously severe mental illness with the homeless populations having a much higher occurrence of schizophrenia and other severe mental issues in comparison to the general population (Mental Health Foundation, 2011). The Australian Bureau of Statistics (2005) also shows that 16% of adults in low socio economical areas have behavioural problems and 20% have psychological stress; compared to 9% and 8% in high socio economical areas.

On a racial note in regards to mental illness; it is apparent that Australian immigrants from South – Asian and African decent as well as indigenous Australians have a higher rate of mental illness and suicide compared to white/western populations in Australia- due to racism and discrimination (McKenzie & Chakraborty, 2011). Those who are racially verbally abused are three times more likely to be depressed and experience psychosis; those who experience racial physical attacks are three times more likely to be depressed and five times more likely to experience psychosis(McKenzie & Chakraborty, 2011). McKenzie and Chakraborty (2011) also suggest those with racist employers are one point six times more likely to suffer psychosis. It is essential that the issue of stigma in mental health is addressed, as it is blatantly clear that mental illness affects a substantial amount of people, and not just the individuals themselves, but their families, friends and colleagues. To reduce prejudice against the mentally ill, public health experts should focus on the reform of health care systems, implementation of government policies and anti stigma campaigns as well as anti stigma programs, education and health promotion in schools and communities.

In conclusion, evidence shows that biological and individual issues contribute to mental illness; however perhaps most importantly is the social impact on mental illness. Contrasting the social theories with statistical evidence shows that economical, environmental, political and cultural aspects of society influence an individuals risk to mental illness perhaps further than what behavioural, biological and genetic aspects do. Again, access to housing, income, education as well as the role of security, respect, acceptance and support within a community can further exasperate mental illness (Australian Department of Health and Ageing, 2005). Australian attitudes perceive the “problem” to be within the individual when infact individual recovery and intervention does little to address stigma and discrimination in society; meanwhile the mentally ill must try and function normally in the community, yet are so often treated as “different” which increases social inequality and alienation (Mental Health Foundation, 2011). Perhaps it is Australian society that needs to change there perception of the mentally ill and not the individual themselves. Wider social acceptance would improve the livelihood of the sufferers and improve the way Australians deal with and accept mental illness, transforming the understanding of mental illness and the stigma surrounding the issue; thus decreasing the risk of mental illness and stigma in Australia. Society needs to be self educated about what mental illness really is and not succumb to misconceptions without previous knowledge; after all, if we ourselves are prejudiced, how can we expect others not to be (Wilson, 2009)?

**ANALYSIS OF ARTIFACT ** The change a mind about mental illness video by Bring Change 2 Mind, represents not only the individual affected by mental illness but also their friends family and support networks and also brings to light the fear of mental illness and the fact that stigma can have a devastating effect on those living with mental illness. The video also suggest that change happens one person at a time and if you change just one persons mind on mental illness you can change a life. The video is ideal for the issue of stigma in mental health as it perpetuates the idea that stigma still exists in society and negatively affects the mentally ill and the fact that there is still much more to do in regards to changing the perceptions of modern society. This issue and video resonates with me on a personal level, as I am one of the support systems to family member with mental illness. I find the issue completely relevant and true in that there is still much more to be done about mental health stigma, and also think that it all starts on an individual level, and that if one person changes their mind then we can all change our minds and therefore slowly change the world a little at a time. In addition; I have found this unit to be eternally useful and meaningful in that I have learnt so much about other people, other cultures and society in general and what shapes other peoples attitudes, values and beliefs. I have also found it extremely empowering to think on a deeper level my role as an individual and my role in society and through this have learnt so much about myself. Not only my attitudes, values and beliefs but why I have those beliefs and how they have been created within me and what has caused it. In this process what I hold most important has been re-created, re-shaped and reinforced and I believe will continue to do so due my new enlightenment and perception on life, and for that; I am most certainly grateful towards Health, Culture and Society.

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">**LINKS** <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Bring Change 2 mind

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">REFERENCES


 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2005). 4824.0.55.001 - Mental Health in Australia: A Snapshot,2004-05.Retrieved from http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/4824.0.55.001
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Australian Department of Health and Ageing. (2005). Homelessness and mental health linkages: Review of national and international literature. Retrieved from www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/0C6EDF2DBEF5A920CA2573FB00196F28/$File/homeall.pdf
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Berkman, L., Glass, T., Brissette, I., & Seeman, T. (2000). From social integration to health: Durkheim in the new millennium. //Social Science & Medicine (1982)//, 51(6), 843-857. Retrieved from EBSCO//host//.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Davidson, G., & Leavey, G. (2010). Promoting mental health in Northern Ireland: Addressing division, inequality and stigma. //Journal of Public Mental Health//, 9(4), 6-15. doi:10.5042/jpmh.2010.0698
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Durkheim, E. (1964). //The elementary forms of the religious life//. New York: Humanities Press. (Original work published 1912)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Durkheim, E. (1933). //The division of labor in society// (G. Simpson, Trans.). New York: Macmillan. (Original work published 1893)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Guimón, J. (2010). Prejudice and realities in stigma. //International Journal of Mental Health//, 39(3), 20-43. doi:10.2753/IMH0020-7411390302
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Hasson-Ohayon, I., Kravetz, S., Meir, T., & Rozencwaig, S. (2009). Insight into severe mental illness, hope, and quality of life of persons with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders. //Psychiatry Research//, 167(3), 231-238. Retrieved from EBSCO//host//.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Henderson, C., & Thornicroft, G. (2009). Stigma and discrimination in mental illness: Time to change. //The Lancet//, 373(9679), 1928-1930. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(09)61046-1
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Kapungwe, A. A., Cooper, S. S., Mwanza, J. J., Mwape, L. L., Sikwese, A. A., Kakuma, R. R., & Flisher, A. J. (2010). Mental illness—Stigma and discrimination in Zambia. //African Journal of Psychiatry//, 13(3), 192-203. Retrieved from EBSCO//host//.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Mayo Clinic. (2010). Mental illness basics: risk factors. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mental-illness/DS01104/DSECTION=risk-factors
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">McKenzie, K., & Chakraborty, A. (2011). Does racial discrimination cause mental illness?. Retrieved from http://bjp.rcpsych.org/content/180/6/475.full
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Mental Health Foundation. (2011). Mental health statistics. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/help-information/mental-health-statistics/
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">National Institute of Mental Health. (2005). Mental illness exacts heavy toll, beginning in youth. Retrieved from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2005/mental-illness-exacts-heavy-toll-beginning-in-youth.shtml
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Quinn, N. N., Shulman, A. A., Knifton, L. L., & Byrne, P. P. (2011). The impact of a national mental health arts and film festival on stigma and recovery. //Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica//, 123(1), 71-81. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0447.2010.01573.x
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Wilson, F. (2009). ‘Mental health’ and prejudice. //Australasian Psychiatry//, 17(5), 419-421. doi:10.1080/10398560902923335

Reflections Hi Jo, I really loved your article on mental health; especially because I particularly like the song and it gave some great insight into what it was all about. I also thought you gave great insight in your cultural and social analysis as to why stigmatisation occurs; and I really found it interesting about the linking of negative attributes to a person and "the group" creating that us and them process that you talked about. I also found your analysis of the medias role in mental stigmatisation to be perfection; an information source yet they are still the main culprits of stigma in mental illness. Over all I found your article to be deeply interesting and insightful… Great Work :) Rachel Pickup

Hi there Frances, I found your article to be extremely interesting and insightful. At first I thought you were going to address all the consumerism of generation Y, but when you linked it with mental health; it was a pleasant surprise and made perfect sense and undeniable cohesion. It is so true that generation y is so consumed in consumerism that they really just don’t have time to consider their health and their mental health. One thing that I've realised is that our generation y are putting way too much pressure on themselves and seem programmed to drop. The world we now live in has become a place where every sense in a persons makeup is either under attack for attention, or over stimulated through music, radio, advertising, phones, TV etc. The value of silence, and nothingness, has been lost, yet it is in these lost quiet times where, we need to evaluate our life, our decisions, words we have both spoken and heard. These are the times when we can get in touch with our mind. I really think that media and technology plays a huge role in this and before you know it, generation y is going to look back on their lives and it all be a fast paced blur of go go go buy buy buy, with no meaningful social interactions, no time for calm and like what your saying, this is not real happiness and is only going to lead to mid life crisis and mental health issues for sure. Your article was truly great and interesting and gave great insight into a different perspective of mental health and generation y consumerism. Great work! From Rachel Pickup :)