what is psychosocial disability

Psychosocial disability is a type of disability that arises when someone with a mental health condition interacts with a social environment that presents barriers to their equality. It is often episodic, invisible, and not well identified, and may be hidden by individuals or their families out of shame, denial, or fear of being locked up and stripped of their most basic rights. Psychosocial disability involves actual or perceived impairment due to a diversity of mental, emotional, or cognitive experiences. People with a psychosocial disability may find it difficult to take part in social activities, set goals and make plans, and engage in education, training, and employment. Some examples of psychosocial disabilities include mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, and schizoid disorders such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. It is important to note that disability is not an inherent condition, but it is a result of the interaction of two things - the impairment itself and the barriers that exist around it.