Imagine these two scenarios:
First, a man stumbles out of a bar, speaking loudly, trying to gain the attention of passersby by putting his arm around them to start a conversation, or remarking on the dress of another passerby.
Second, a man stands outside the public library asking for money. He seems to be talking to himself.
Now, replay each scenario in your mind and change the details of the subject (e.g., white, black, male, female, varied clothing). How would others nearby react? Would the police be called—or not called—in any of these variations? Would the individual be ignored, tolerated, or asked to leave?
you extend this type of thinking by examining perceptions related to mental health and substance use as an illness and how that may affect policy and treatment.
Review the Learning Resources and reflect on societal perceptions of both mental health and substance abuse.
Post a response to the following:
• To what degree does the perception of substance use as a crime versus an illness affect policy designed to reduce substance use?
• To what degree do perceptions of mental health and substance abuse affect treatment services?
• How do perceptions of vulnerable and disenfranchised populations affect the choice to treat or incarcerate individual with mental health or substance use issues?
Full Answer Section
Scenario 2: Man Asking for Money
- White male, well-dressed: May be seen as down on his luck or in need of help. Some people may offer money or resources, while others may ignore him.
- Black male, disheveled: More likely to be perceived as a threat or criminal. Police may be called, and he may face discrimination or prejudice.
- Woman, any race: May be seen as more vulnerable and likely to receive sympathy or assistance. However, she may still face challenges due to stereotypes or stigma associated with homelessness or mental illness.
Impact of Perceptions on Policy and Treatment
Substance Use as a Crime vs. an Illness:
- Criminalization: If substance use is primarily viewed as a crime, policies may focus on punishment and incarceration, rather than treatment and rehabilitation.
- Public Health Approach: If substance use is viewed as an illness, policies may prioritize prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies.
Perceptions of Mental Health and Substance Abuse:
- Stigma: Negative perceptions of mental health and substance abuse can lead to discrimination, stigma, and barriers to accessing treatment.
- Limited Resources: Funding for mental health and substance abuse services may be limited due to negative public perceptions.
- Treatment Accessibility: Individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues may face difficulties in accessing appropriate treatment, particularly in underserved communities.
Vulnerable and Disenfranchised Populations
- Discrimination: Vulnerable and disenfranchised populations, such as racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ individuals, may face additional barriers to accessing mental health and substance abuse treatment due to discrimination and stigma.
- Limited Resources: These populations may have limited access to quality healthcare, including mental health and substance abuse services.
- Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences: Vulnerable and disenfranchised populations are often more likely to experience trauma and adverse childhood experiences, which can increase the risk of mental health and substance abuse issues.
Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Reducing stigma: Promoting awareness and understanding of mental health and substance abuse issues.
- Increasing access to treatment: Expanding access to affordable and culturally appropriate treatment services.
- Addressing social determinants of health: Addressing underlying social, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to mental health and substance abuse issues.
- Implementing harm reduction strategies: Implementing strategies to reduce the negative consequences of substance use, such as needle exchange programs and overdose prevention.
By addressing these issues, we can create a more compassionate and supportive society for individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse.