The framework for dignity in mental health

The notion of dignity can simply be defined as the inherent and inalienable worth of all human beings irrespective of social status such as race, gender, physical or mental state1. Dignity is deeply embedded in international human rights instruments. In fact the very first article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”2, 3. Protection and respect of human rights are the necessary prerequisites to ensure that people are not stripped of their dignity.