The psychosocial impact of and access to mental health care for individuals with visual impairments.

Abstract

Blindness and Visual Impairment is one of the first recognized disabilities out of the 21 disabilities delineated by the Rights for Persons with Disabilities Act. Despite its recognition, a large research gap was identified regarding access to mental health care in India. Further, the distinction between impairment and disability characterized by differentiating the medical impact and psychosocial impact was not widely explored in existing literature. This qualitative phenomenological research explored the lived experiences of 11 adults with visual impairments in India, examining psychosocial challenges and mental healthcare access. Four Key themes were derived with the use of the Braun and Clarke model of thematic analysis - Impact of Visual Impairment, Coping Strategies, Perceived Support and Access to Mental Healthcare. The findings revealed unique experiences and influences on wellbeing and daily functioning as well as the role stigma plays in perpetuating contemporary disability rhetoric. The study emphasizes the need for tailored policies and interventions to address the psychosocial and mental healthcare challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments.