Mental health issues
Social inclusion is significant in aiding the recovery of people with mental health issues. It means that such individuals are able to access opportunities and services such as in the economical, recreational, educational, and health services (Dunstan, Falconer, and Price , 2018, p.96) Social inclusion also requires active individual participation. These forms of social interactions enable people with mental health issues to obtain emotional support from other people around them. Participating in social activities gives such individuals a sense of purpose in life. This can eliminate negative thoughts such as those of suicide and low self-esteem. Interacting with others reduces stress levels and reduces anxiety and depression. According to (Filia et al, 2018, p. 183) being socially connected contributes to a positive development of a person’s emotional wellbeing. Therefore, social inclusion can help improve the mental health of adults with mental health problems.
Combating stigma against people with mental health issues such stigma occurs as a result of prejudgment and false beliefs that the society holds against such individuals. This leads to the denial of opportunities in society such as good jobs and quality healthcare (Schlozman et al, 2016, p. 45). Such discrimination inhibits social inclusion which is important to them, as discussed above. Combating stigma, therefore, benefits mental health patients by facilitating social inclusion. Stigma also has a negative effect on a person’s self-esteem and confidence, which causes further damage to a person’s mental health. Ending stigma in the society can create more opportunities for such individuals to get support from other people in the society, which will help them in their recovery (Villoti et al, 2018, p. 125). It also enables these people to be more willing to seek help for their conditions. Therefore, combating stigma supports mental health by promoting social inclusion.