Systems and Psychological Disability

While I love the folks who say capitalism and other systemic issues are the cause of mental illnesses, it’s not entirely correct. While mental illness may not have been stigmatized and may even have been honored in many pre-colonial societies, it has always existed. For some folks, medication is necessary to stay alive.

A lot of people will denounce therapy, but not be ready to provide emotional care for psychologically disabled folks. Also, a lot of folks will say that psychologically disabled folks just need to take medicine and go to therapy, but are not willing to see the systemic issues that provide barriers, criminalize, and kill psychologically disabled folks.

I think a better discussion would not shame anyone, but ask questions about how we can all support each other in surviving and thriving. If we are interested in demolishing systems of oppression, then we must also look at ways to build systems of care. We must also be willing to realize that equality is not the point when equity is what is needed. It is okay if your needs are not my needs, and I shouldn't expect them to be the same.

In the world I choose, we recognize each other's different needs, and respond to them with the care we have in capacity. The world we want is made by big decisions, but it is also made by ever day decision of resistance, subversion, and care.

Copyright©️2026 Sojourner “Hughes” Davidson