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Stigma Files 2018
Media outlets have a powerful role to play in breaking down the stigma of mental illness and suicide
The Australian media often use their voice to push positive messages regarding mental health and suicide prevention.
During Mental Health Week 2018, an Australian journalist wrote an article discussing the issue of male suicide rates in Australia. The article explored the stigma and self-stigma faced by men living with mental health issues. The article looked in depth into why men don’t seek help when they need it. The journalist interviewed Jack Heath, CEO of SANE and Gus Worland from Gotcha4Life co-founder, for the story, which added expert commentary to a very complex issue.
Result: We welcome and encourage journalists and media outlets to cover stories related to mental illness and suicide. When reported responsibly and sensitively, it can challenge public misconceptions and myths and increase community awareness and encourage discussion and prevention activities.
Why it mattered? Media play an important role in reporting about the broader issue of suicide, which includes analysis of policy, practice, research, rates and trends, and other areas of public interest. Proactive, responsible and accurate reporting of mental illness and suicide by Australian journalists is a crucial component in working towards reducing stigma. From a long-term perspective, we hope that articles such as this one, contribute to a reduction in suicide rates.
Mental illness is not a weakness
Stereotypes can hurt
Scrubbing the ‘glamour’ from suicide deaths
Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as traditional custodians of the land on which it operates. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging, and value the rich history, unbroken culture and ongoing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to country.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as traditional custodians of the land on which it operates. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging, and value the rich history, unbroken culture and ongoing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to country.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.