MindFreedom International

MindFreedom International

Logo of MindFreedom International

MindFreedom International is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the rights of individuals labeled with psychiatric disabilities. It is part of the mental health consumer/survivor movement and works to promote human rights and alternatives to the traditional psychiatric system.

History

MindFreedom International was founded in 1986 by a coalition of psychiatric survivors, mental health professionals, and advocates. The organization was established to challenge the coercive practices in the mental health system and to promote the rights of individuals to make their own choices regarding their mental health care.

Mission and Goals

The mission of MindFreedom International is to "win human rights and alternatives for people labeled with psychiatric disabilities." The organization aims to:

• Promote human rights and dignity for individuals with psychiatric labels.
• Support the development of alternatives to traditional psychiatric treatment.
• Advocate for the self-determination and empowerment of mental health consumers and survivors.
• Challenge the use of forced treatment and other coercive practices in the mental health system.

Activities

MindFreedom International engages in a variety of activities to achieve its goals, including:

• Advocacy and Campaigns: The organization conducts campaigns to raise awareness about human rights violations in the mental health system and to promote alternatives to psychiatric treatment.
• Support and Networking: MindFreedom provides support and networking opportunities for individuals labeled with psychiatric disabilities, their families, and allies.
• Education and Awareness: The organization offers educational resources and training to increase awareness about mental health rights and alternatives.
• Legal and Policy Advocacy: MindFreedom works to influence public policy and legislation to protect the rights of mental health consumers and survivors.

Membership and Structure

MindFreedom International is a membership-based organization, with members from around the world. It is governed by a board of directors, which includes individuals with lived experience of psychiatric labeling, as well as mental health professionals and advocates.

Related Pages

• Mental health
• Psychiatric survivor movement
• Human rights
• Alternatives to psychiatry