FAMOUS magazine and radio station CFM Gold Coast both reported singer Britney Spears’ psychological distress and entry to rehab this year. The commentary of both media outlets was mocking. FAMOUS and CFM made fun of Spears' behaviour. Speculations on her mental health included talk of bipolar, paranoia and depression.

StigmaWatch contacted FAMOUS and CFM Gold Coast in March to let them know that people experiencing mental illness found attitudes like these a barrier to seeking help.

Ali Wick, Executive Editor of FAMOUS, said: ‘as a news magazine we are bound to have to report on not only the glamorous and scandalous aspects of celebrity life, but also some of the more tragic times too…it is impossible to ignore certain details which individuals may find disturbing, or worrying, for any number of reasons.’

Tim Lordan, Assistant Program Director and Morning Crew Anchor of CFM, said: ‘although we described Britney’s behaviour as erratic and strange, and joked about her new hairless appearance, we also emphasised that we were actually quite concerned about her and hoped that she seeks the appropriate help.’