From Psychiatric Patient to Citizen: Overcoming Discrimination and Social Exclusion

This book argues that, were it not for deep-seated prejudice and social exclusion, people diagnosed as mentally ill could be full citizens, actively participating in society as workers, parents and community members. In a cogent analysis of social attitudes, cultural representations and the legal and policy framework, it identifies the theoretical approaches and practical tasks necessary to effect positive change. Drawing on research in the US and UK, as well as extensive experience of lobbying and policy work, Liz Sayce criticiques the most popular approaches to reducing stigma and demonstrates instead how a 'disability inclusion' model can effectively be translated into the legal, grassroots and public education initiatives needed to end 'segregation in the community'. Her wide-ranging analysis offers a new synthesis of mental health service users' writings and activism, whether on employment rights or media depictions of mental illness.