Mad/Abolitionism
Title: Rethinking Mental Health Services: Learning from Mad Activism and Disability Justice
In recent times, my exploration of Mad abolitionism and disability justice has led me to question my previous views on mental health services. An eye-opening article titled "Policing in Europe: Disability Justice and Abolitionist Intersectional Care" by Vanessa E. Thompson profoundly resonated with me, prompting me to reflect on the importance of centering the voices of those most affected by the Psy-complex in reshaping our approach to mental health care.
The quote that struck a chord with me emphasized the need to critically examine the call for "more social services (instead of policing)," particularly in the context of mental health care. While advocating for increased access to mental health services is essential, we must be cautious not to inadvertently perpetuate the violence engendered by sanism and psy-discourses. Simply calling for "more" or "better" services without considering the inherent complexities and power dynamics in the mental health system may risk concealing the relationship between pathologization and criminalization.
It has become clear to me that genuine change in mental health care can only be achieved when we actively involve and listen to those who have experienced the harmful impacts of the Psy-complex firsthand. The voices and experiences of Mad activists, scholars, writers, educators, and those from disability justice communities are crucial in shaping a more compassionate and equitable system.
The process of unlearning and relearning has been both humbling and enlightening. The more I delve into Mad activism and disability justice, the more I realize how much there is to learn and understand. It is a constant reminder that our journey towards a more inclusive and just world is an ongoing one, with new insights and perspectives emerging along the way.
As I reflect on my previous calls for "more mental health services," I now recognize the importance of grounding our advocacy efforts in intersectional care. This means acknowledging and addressing the ways in which mental health services have, at times, perpetuated harm or overlooked the needs of marginalized communities.
True progress in mental health care lies in dismantling the harmful systems that have disproportionately impacted vulnerable populations. It involves elevating the expertise of those who have experienced the consequences of these systems and allowing their insights to guide us toward transformative solutions.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the activists, scholars, writers, and educators within Mad activism and disability justice communities. Their dedication and tireless efforts are paving the way for a more just and compassionate world. I am inspired and humbled by their willingness to share their wisdom and experiences, and I commit to being an ally in their fight for a better mental health system.
Solidarity is the key as we work together to challenge the status quo and foster a mental healthcare landscape that centers on empathy, compassion, and the empowerment of those most impacted. By dismantling the harmful aspects of the Psy-complex, we can create a future where mental health services truly serve the diverse needs of all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.
Let us continue to learn, grow, and advocate for a world where mental health care is driven by the values of justice, equity, and genuine care for all. Together, we can build a brighter and more inclusive future for mental health, one that celebrates the resilience and strength of every individual in our global community.
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[ID: cloud graphics in red with red font overlay which reads: “More mental health services as a response to police violence against Mad people, ignores the harms of sanism and the psy-complex. Our calls for abolition must be in solidarity with disability justice and Mad movements.” End of description.]