People with mental illness and human rights: A developing countries perspective

BACKGROUND: Human rights violations among the people with mental illness were not an uncommon occurrence. The present study was aimed to compare persons with psychiatric illness and their caregivers’ perceptions regarding the human rights status of people with mental illness in the community. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive design was carried out among randomly selected asymptomatic psychiatric patients and their caregivers (N=200) at a tertiary care center. Data was collected through face-to-face interview, using a structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed and interpreted using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS: Our findings revealed that the caregivers than psychiatric patients perceived negatively to the statements i.e., ‘Receiving equal information and encouragement about career opportunities’ (χ(2)=10.779, P<0.029), ‘Opposing discriminatory actions, slurs’ (χ(2)=9.472, P<0.050) ‘Resolving the conflicts with people with mental illness through nonviolent ways’ (χ(2)=27.091, P<0.000), ‘Responding to the complaints of harassment or discrimination against the people with mental illness’ (χ(2)=18.697, P<0.001), ‘Encouraged to continue their education’ (χ(2)=13.029, P<0.023) ‘Exploitation by the community members’ (χ(2)=18.653, P<0.001) and working under fair conditions (χ(2)=13.470, P<0.009). CONCLUSION: The study suggests that there is an urgent need to take necessary steps to protect, promote, and fulfill human rights of people with mental illness through providing care, educating the community, and strengthening the legislations.