The Mental Health Commission urges the Hawkes Bay community to resist discriminating against people with mental illness.

"The attitudes expressed by certain members of the community are very harmful to those suffering with mental illness and may stop people seeking the help that they need, said Mental Health Commission Chair Dr Peter Mc George.

Dr McGeorge was referring to the community response in Meeanee to a proposed $1.8 million dollar 10 bed residential centre for people suffering from depression and bi polar disorder. Considering that in New Zealand 1 in 5 people at any point in time suffer with a mental illness and an addiction it was very important to be mindful of the consequences of discriminating against people with mental illnesses.

"Anyone can be affected whether it is oneself, a family member, a friend or a work colleague. If you have a prejudice against someone who seems to be suffering a mental illness and you take steps to whip up fear and antagonism against them it may be you or a loved one next," he said.

The overwhelming evidence from international studies is that living in the community supports recovery more effectively in the long run than long-term hospital care. It is important to note the majority of people with a mental illness do not pose any risk at all to others.

"I would urge those referring to the group-housing proposal to be more compassionate. Such attitudes not only stigmatised people with mental illness but they also violated their rights as human beings and citizens," Dr Mc George said. The Commission applauds the DHBs support for this initiative. In knowing the good work that the organisation 'Whatever It Takes" has done, the Commission is confident that it will provide an excellent service, and that any concerns that the community have will be addressed. "It has been said that the measure of a society is how they address the needs of their most vulnerable. This also applies to communities" he said.