December 2014

Dear StigmaWatchers

Another year of StigmaWatch . . . and once again we weren't short of good and poor reports to respond to.

The year began with the experience of four high-profile people with mental health issues being dissected every which way, by the Australian media. The mental health of Olympic swimmer Ian Thorpe and television producer Adam Boland, as well as the deaths of television presenter Charlotte Dawson and fashion designer L’Wren Scott, were analysed in news reports, opinion pieces and online blogs - some were Good News Reports and some were Stigma Reports.

The second half of the year saw an increase in activity. More than 30 reports were received in August, September and October, levels not seen since 2006! These complaints were on a variety of topics, with the most concerning including inappropriate use of terminology, graphic re-enactments and outdated stereotypes. The most concerning reports acted upon by SANE StigmaWatch are detailed below.

After four years campaigning and advocating on your behalf, it's time to hand the reins over to the new StigmaWatch Coordinator, Jenni Henderson. Thank you for your commitment to StigmaWatch - being the 'eyes and ears' of the program - which only works with your ongoing support.

Jenni joins StigmaWatch from the ABC and brings a wealth of knowledge with seven years experience working in the media. If you see a stigmatising report, or a responsible story, make sure you bring it to her attention by completing an online report, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

All the best

Jeremy Little

StigmaWatch Reports

Front-page stigma

On October 8 Brisbane’s Courier Mail led its report on a tragic murder-suicide with a totally inappropriate and stigmatising front page headline.

StigmaWatch contacted the Courier Mail Editor, informing him of the reaction to the stigmatising headline.

What was his response?

Read More >>

Stigmatising horror ride

During September StigmaWatch received eight reports regarding 'Bethlem Sanatorium' - a ride at the Perth Royal Show.

The horror exhibit - based on the infamous London asylum founded in the 13th century and known for its cruel treatment of patients - was to feature 20 actors playing the role of patients in a hospital ward.

So what was the response when StigmaWatch approached the Perth Royal Show?

Read more >>

Irresponsible re-enactment

During July SANE StigmaWatch worked with the Hunter Institute of Mental Health’s Mindframe initiative to respond to an inappropriate television report regarding police suicide and PTSD.

How did StigmaWatch and Mindframe respond to the irresponsible re-enactment?

Read more >>

Stigmatising language in parliament

SANE offered guidance on language and representation of mental illness to two South Australian politicians following the use of stigmatising language during a parliamentary session.

Read more >>