Experiences of mental health discrimination in New Zealand

Discrimination against people with experience of mental illness is a recognised problem, and there is a lack of information in New Zealand regarding the nature of this discrimination. The Like Minds, Like Mine project is a New Zealand initiative to combat the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness. This paper reports on a study undertaken as part of this initiative, and describes the nature of discrimination that people with experience of mental illness face in New Zealand. A written survey was undertaken with people with experience of mental illness from throughout New Zealand, using a mixture of qualitative and quantitative questions. This questionnaire was distributed throughout the country in 2003, using a variety of distribution methods, and 785 responses were received and analysed from people self-identifying as having experienced mental illness. Respondents reported discrimination in all areas of their lives. The most commonly reported areas were discrimination by friends and family (59%), a fear of being discriminated against (46%), and discrimination in looking for employment (34%) and mental health services (34%). Discrimination can limit the participation of people with experience of mental illness in our society. We all need to examine our own attitudes and behaviours and take responsibility for discrimination.