Thread by @javeedsukhera

The standard you accept is the standard you live by.

How much do we 'accept' in healthcare that is inhumane and harmful? How often do we shrug our shoulders and sit idly and silent while friends and family experience dehumanization and discrimination? a THREAD

Many organizations learn from negative experiences of others and invite critique to improve. Yet, too many silence critics, and smile in public while rolling their eyes in private. They look out for their own power and have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo. /1

The ways in which we treat people suffering with mental illness and addiction is a perfect example. I have researched stigma in acute healthcare organizations for years. Despite some positive counter examples, these patients are consistently treated in undignified ways. /2

The entire frame in which we discuss these horrible experiences triggers denial/defense. Our instinct is to rationalize; to dismiss. Rarely if ever do we elevate and dignify the patient/family and their experience. Especially if they have a history of psychiatric illness. /3

So what will we continue to accept?

Will we let them silence us or will we be the truth tellers?

Will we resign ourselves to helplessness or will we be fearless?

Thanks for reading. Have a great day.