The involvement of people with lived experiences and their families in mental health services is a qualifying aspect of the WAPR’s activities that should go beyond social protection and the recognition of fundamental rights. People experiencing disabilities are usually protected and cared for, but must become rights holders in order to ensure their social inclusion, as well as their access to high-level social and health services. Involving people with lived experiences is a necessary step toward allowing their greater participation in all aspects of healthcare. There is a need for real acknowledgement of lived experiences as an equal knowledge base in mental health. The result would be improved treatment outcomes and more appropriate services that adequately respond to peoples’ needs.

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