OUR WORK
Challenging the status quo in mental health law, policy and practice.
We are a group of scholars and activists dedicated to the study of human rights and social justice-based approaches to mental health law, policy and practices.
As a policy and research hub, we challenge status quo policies and practices in the mental health field while actively providing solutions for reform. We collaborate and work with individuals who have lived experience and/or identify as having a psychosocial disability.
Current projects
The Centre is engaged in a dynamic range of initiatives that place human rights at the core of mental health policy and practice. These include: contributing to the development of Brazil’s first national Housing First policy, which addresses homelessness through a human rights framework; supporting a knowledge exchange initiative aimed at promoting the rights and social inclusion of persons with psychosocial disabilities; and conducting participatory research that critically examines the narratives, actors, institutions, and funding structures shaping the field of Global Mental Health.
Our work
We drive change through four interconnected pillars. Our work is rooted in integrity, dignity, and a commitment to justice and equality for all.
Mental health futures
We collaborate with grassroots mental health advocates and psychosocial disability rights groups to support their advocacy and strengthen their campaigns for better mental health services and policies in their communities.
Policy
We work with governments and other stakeholders to promote and implement human rights-based approaches to mental health. Our focus is on supporting initiatives that challenge outdated systems and on advocating for culturally-sensitive approaches.
Research
We conduct and champion innovative research that aims to shift the current biomedical paradigm, moving focus from treatment to prevention. Our goal is to integrate human rights principles fully into mental health policies and practices.
Dialogue
We bring together lawyers, mental health professionals, policymakers, activists and those with lived experience to discuss emerging evidence and innovative approaches, as well as to provide a critical lens in mental health reforms and discourses at all levels.
About the Centre for Mental Health, Human Rights, and Social Justice
We were founded in 2020 as a response to the work of Dr. Dainius Pūras during his time as United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard physical and mental health, where he used a right to health framework to advocate for a paradigm shift in how we understand and respond to mental health.
We envision a world where mental health care is rooted in respect, dignity, and equality for all. We fearlessly question the status quo, using international human rights laws to hold systems accountable. We pioneer human rights-based approaches that put the experiences of those directly affected by mental health issues at the forefront.
Our strength lies in our diversity. We are an independent collective of scholars and activists from various disciplines, united in our cause. We strive to decolonize mental health, breaking free from outdated paradigms to create a more just and inclusive future. Join us in our mission to revolutionise mental health.
Let's revolutionise mental health
Our work would not be possible without the generosity and support of our donors. Discover how you can join us in our mission to transform mental health.