Dr. Jennifer Poole gives a Ted Talk about Sanism. Sanism is something that many of us do not intentionally participate in. However, it can have detrimental effects on how, as a society, we perceive, treat and accept mental health issues. Sanist behaviours and language that is used, either intentionally or unintentionally, continuously enforces social stigma against mental illness. Examples of sanist behaviours include moving away from someone on the subway who is behaving “oddly”, and saying someone is “crazy”. Dr. Poole stresses the importance of recognizing sanist behaviour and language in our everyday lives. Furthermore, we should work towards not participating in it. This will not only reduce the stigma about mental health issues but it will also improve our own relationship with mental health by turning it into something more positive.

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Feature: Ivan Shilov at Unsplash, Creative Commons