Event highlights
Co-funded by the European Union and WHO, the Social Inclusion of Persons with Mental Disabilities Project convened key stakeholders to present 3 documentaries created by the project over the past 5 years, at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara. The event served as a platform to highlight the importance of social inclusion for individuals with mental disabilities, offering a space to share real-life stories of resilience, determination and transformation.
Gathering health professionals, policy-makers, academics, students and the public, the showcase aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions. By amplifying their voices and experiences, the event sought to promote dignity, equity and full societal participation for all, reinforcing Türkiye’s commitment to advancing inclusive mental health policies and practices.
The event was inaugurated by Dr Tasnim Atatrah, WHO Representative in Türkiye, who reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to advancing inclusive mental health policies that protect human dignity, promote equity and support independent living for individuals with mental health conditions.
Figen Tunçkanat from the European Union Delegation to Türkiye addressed the importance of tackling chronic mental health conditions as a major public health issue. She emphasized that the European Commission’s person-centred, community-based approach aligns with Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to support individuals with mental disabilities.
Dr Yasin Akar, Director General of Services for Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly, emphasized that the essence of societal progress today is defined by the value placed on human dignity and inclusion. He highlighted that through national and international cooperation, the aim is to ensure individuals with mental disabilities can access their rights and participate fully in society without discrimination.
A showcase of resilience and transformation
The 3 documentaries featured at the event highlighted the lived experiences, resilience and achievements of individuals with mental health conditions:
- “The smiling side of the coin” explores the stigma associated with mental disabilities and how societal attitudes influence the experiences of service users. Personal stories of resilience underscore the ongoing need to combat stigma in mental health.
- “It is good to be remembered” reflects on the experiences of both institutional staff and service users living under the constraints of a residential shift system during the COVID-19 quarantine. It showcases the strength and adaptability of mental health workers, social workers and service users during unprecedented times.
- “Change is possible” features stories from the Karaisalı Accessible Life Care Rehabilitation and Family Counselling Centre, illustrating how individuals have successfully transitioned into the workforce and formed new social networks after years spent in institutional care. It highlights the transformative power of inclusion and the potential for independent living with the right support.
Building a more inclusive future
The documentaries underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to promote social inclusion and ensure equitable access to mental health services. Through these documentaries, participants were reminded of the importance of fostering a society where every individual, regardless of their condition, can live a fulfilling and independent life.
Event notice
The Social Inclusion of Persons with Mental Disabilities Project, co-funded by the European Union and WHO, will host a documentary showcase at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara, Türkiye.
The event aims to increase awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions, encourage their full participation in society, and highlight the importance of resilience, inclusion, and support services. It also seeks to foster national and international collaboration to advance equitable access to mental health care, reduce stigma and support independent living opportunities.