PORTRAIT Expert

Dr. Jean-Victor Blanc

Since I have only worked in public hospitals, I am very aware of the structural difficulties holding back the improvement of France’s mental health care system. Nonetheless, I think that the main aspect which affects the group in question is the stigmatization they face; starting from prevention and diagnosis, to care and right up to recovery. The priority here should be working to finally shift how we regard mental health. I am convinced that we need to share knowledge in order to reduce discrimination. Also, information has to be available and tailored to different audiences. Finally, I think that there is also an image problem we need to combat. Historically, it was art and culture which shaped our attitudes and behaviour. For too long, psychological issues have been side-lined as seemingly sad pathologies, often regarded as violent, with no hope of recovery and the blame being placed on the person in question. By moving away from these stereotypes, we can reimagine certain clichés, which will let us better look after ourselves and also promote inclusion.