Can a person be discriminated against for mental health?

Under the Equality Act, employees are protected against mental health discrimination at work. This piece explores the legislation as well as the options available to those that have been discriminated against.

Which is an example of discrimination in mental health?

Discrimination in mental health is any situation where one person treats another poorly or unfairly because they have a mental disorder. Stigma is a problem that can even worsen the mental health of people with a mental disorder.

How does the Equality Act protect people with mental illness?

The Equality Act protects carers and relatives of people with a mental illness from direct discrimination. An employer or service may treat you worse than others because you are caring for a disabled person. This is known as “discrimination by association”. If you are a carer,…

How is a person with a mental health condition protected?

A person with a mental health condition is protected against discrimination on the basis of any of these characteristics. However, this factsheet only looks at circumstances where a person with a mental health condition is considered to have a disability under the Act, and how this will give them protection against discrimination. Top 1.

Can a person with a mental illness be discriminated against?

This includes many people with a mental illness. If someone has treated you unfairly because of a mental illness that could be discrimination. The Equality Act 2010 explains what a disability is. If you match this definition, you could be protected from discrimination, harassment and victimisation by the Act.

What are some examples of mental illness discrimination?

Here are a few examples of mental illness discrimination and ways to challenge unfair practices. Medicaid and Medicare laws discriminate against people with mental illness. For example, one law prohibits federal Medicaid funding for non-elderly adults receiving psychiatric care in a treatment facility with more than 16 beds.

How does stigma and discrimination affect mental illness?

Stigma and discrimination can contribute to worsening symptoms and reduced likelihood of getting treatment. A recent extensive review of research found that self-stigma leads to negative effects on recovery among people diagnosed with severe mental illnesses.

Are there any rights for people with mental health problems?

As people, they deserve to be treated with dignity, and under the law they have rights and protections. Unfortunately, it has long been the case that individuals with mental health conditions are among the most abused and discriminated against in our country.