Social Issues and Mental Health
The social issues described in the previous article above may have severe mental health consequences for people with disabilities. According to the CDC, Adults with disabilities report experiencing frequent mental distress almost 5 times as often as adults without disabilities.
(CDC, 2020). The mental health issues faced by people with disabilities usually are not in response to the disability itself, but rather they are often in response to the treatment they receive by others. Social isolation created by lack of accessibility, discrimination, and ableism can put people with disabilities at risk of mental illness. In addition to issues faced in general society, people with disabilities also battle feelings of loneliness, and some even experience abuse from health care providers and caregivers (NAMI, 2021). Because of social issues like these, depression and suicidal ideation are common among people with disabilities (Johansen, n.d.). However, many people with disabilities are discouraged from reaching out for help because of certain stigmas that suggest that they are considered less than
because of their disability. For this reason, it is especially important that people with disabilities have access to mental health resources, and that they are encouraged to take advantage of them.
Being an ally for someone with disabilities may also be an important step in helping combat mental distress and mental illness. Having a good friend who understands their abilities, works to be accommodating, and offers emotional and physical support when needed may help to combat feelings of social isolation and exclusion. It's important that everyone feels supported, but for people with disabilities, it's critical. Not only can an ally support them emotionally, but allies can also be advocates for social change for people with disabilities. Having another voice increases the chance of social change. For these reasons, it is important that people consider becoming friends or allies to people with disabilities, because it not only combats feelings of loneliness and depression, it also brings awareness to social issues that can cause mental illness and inspires change.