When people think of human rights issues or offences, they may immediately think of people who are discriminated against or harassed because of gender, ethnic or religious identity, or sexual orientation.  But what about people suffering from mental illness or addiction?  Do people with mental illness or addiction face barriers when it comes to finding housing, employment, or accessing services? 

People with mental health disabilities and addictions are covered under the ground of “disability” in the Ontario Human Rights Code (Code).  They are protected against discrimination and harassment in the areas of employment, housing, goods, services and facilities, contracts, and membership in trade, union or occupational associations. This includes people who have a disability, had a disability in the past, or are believed to have or have had a disability.

The Ontario Human Rights Commission is conducting research and developing a policy that will explain the human rights protections for people with mental health disabilities (also called mental illness or psychiatric disabilities) and addictions. 

They want people who have a past or present mental health issue or addiction, OR their friends or family members, to complete surveys for their research into this issue.  If this describes you, then click on the link, and tell them what you have to say!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/OHRCmentalhealthsurvey  for people to fill out about themselves

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/OHRCmentalhealthsurvey2 for people to fill out about someone they care about

Posted by Andrea