Rights of Mentally Challenged People in America - Essay Example

"Rights of Mentally Challenged People in America" is a worthy example of a paper on the disorder.
A mental disorder also known as mental illness is a mental condition that is characterized by total disorganization of mind, personality, and emotions to temper with an individual normal psychological functioning. Different regulations have been developed in many states to protect individuals who have a psychiatric disorder (Okin, 2014). There are five common rights that all individuals who are challenged mentally should be exercised.  They should be treated with equal respect and dignity as normal individuals. They should be given the necessary privacy when needed. They should be given services according to their age and culture as required. They should be explained accordingly so that they understand available treatment and options. They should receive medication and health care without discrimination of age, race, or type of their illness.

Any individual who voluntarily or involuntarily is involved in mental healthcare treatment has rights and certain legal rights. The basis of these rights may be federal laws, state, or regulatory requirements.

According to the Kansas center of disability rights, there are three parts in which mentally challenged person rights can be exercised (Okin, 2014).  Those rights apply to individual disorders, facilities of treatment and health care systems, and lastly qualified mental health care professionals.

Conditions for one to be considered mentally disordered

Any person who has a psychiatric disorder which comprises psychological or behavioral and the disorder is disabling the normal functioning of a person to the extent that medication and health care is necessary. The individual does not have the capability to make a correct decision concerning treatment.

 He or she can cause harm to himself or others and lastly, the person’s diagnosis is not only from one from the list of conditions that are usually considered unresponsive to mental treatment (Okin, 2014). Only recommended medication and health care centers should handle such conditions and only qualified professional mental health should take care of the patients.

Rights of the mentally disordered

The rights of mentally disordered individuals include; the right to communicate with any relevant authority and legal representatives. To be hosted in a conducive and appropriate environment and living conditions and individualized treatment, for example, good clothing, adequate food, privacy among others. Other rights are to live and work in the society to the extent possible (Okin, 2014). Recognize their rights as patients, public to protect their economic interests. To have their civil and political rights in which they can make decisions where necessary. Provisions should be made for children and adults who are vulnerable species.