3.4. Describe how the media can influence attitudes towards mental health

This guide will help you answer 3.4. Describe how the media can influence attitudes towards mental health.

Media portrays information that shapes our understanding of the world. It can impact how we view mental health. Information from television, social networks, online articles, and newspapers forms a story. This story affects beliefs and actions regarding mental health in children and young people. Understanding mental health is critical for destigmatizing and providing support for those in need. When media perpetuates negative stereotypes or misinformation about mental health, it can create barriers to seeking help and lead to harmful attitudes towards those struggling. However, by portraying accurate and supportive information, the media can play a crucial role in promoting awareness and understanding mental health.

Positive Depictions

Media can shine a light on mental health positively. Showing characters with mental health issues can humanise them. It helps children and young people empathise and understand. Media stories that feature recovery and resilience offer hope.

Examples include:

• Documentaries: They explore real-life individuals navigating mental health challenges, providing an authentic perspective.
• TV Shows: Some shows have storylines involving mental illness where characters experience growth and find support.

Such depictions can strike a chord with young audiences. They might become more open about their feelings and even seek help.

Negative Portrayals

Unfortunately, media does not always show mental health in a positive light. Stigma still exists due to media misrepresentation. Sensationalised headlines and negative narratives can lead to misunderstanding and fear.

Common negative portrayals include:

• Violent Behaviour: Characters with mental illness may be shown as violent, fostering fear and mistrust.
• Trivialisation: Media sometimes belittles mental health issues, treating them as jokes or phase.
• Stereotyping: Certain stereotypes persist, such as depicting those with mental health challenges as unreliable or incapable.

These portrayals can influence young viewers’ thoughts and actions, reinforcing negative perceptions.

Social Media’s Role

Social media is a double-edged sword in the mental health conversation. It provides a platform for advocacy and awareness but can also fuel unrealistic standards.

Positives of social media include:

• Support Networks: Platforms like Instagram and Twitter host communities where young people share experiences and tips for managing mental health.
• Campaigns: Hashtag campaigns can go viral, increasing awareness and breaking down stigma.

Negatives involve:

• Comparison: Continuous comparison to polished and curated images can impact self-esteem.
• Cyberbullying: Online harassment remains a significant issue, with mental health repercussions.

Educational Content

Educational programmes and articles can improve understanding about mental health. When media includes expert opinions and factual narratives, it can educate effectively.

Benefits include:

• Breaking Stigma: Accurate information helps dismantle misconceptions.
• Encouragement to Seek Help: Individuals may seek professional support after learning about mental health services.

Challenges are present. Some educational media might not reach the intended audience. Or, incorrect information might circulate.

The News Media

News channels and articles contribute to the mental health narrative. The way stories are reported matters a lot. Balanced reporting can inform and educate.

Considerations for news media:

• Responsible Reporting: Journalists should focus on facts without sensationalising.
• Highlighting Recovery Stories: Sharing real stories of recovery inspires and reduces stigma.

Conversely, alarmist reporting may spread fear or lead to generalisation.

The Role of Celebrities

Celebrities speaking openly about their mental health challenges can effect change. When public figures discuss therapy or mental health openly, young fans take notice.

Positive impacts include:

• Normalisation: It becomes normal to talk about mental health when celebrities do.
• Role Modelling: Celebrities showing vulnerability can encourage fans to do the same.

Negative influence may occur if celebrities spread misinformation. Followers might adopt these incorrect views.

Regulating Media Influence

Regulations guide how media portrays mental health. Media watchdogs and organisations like Ofcom play a role in monitoring content.

Key elements include:

• Setting Guidelines: Establishing acceptable portrayals of mental health.
• Public Complaints: Allowing public feedback about inappropriate or harmful content.

Educational institutions and organisations working with young people must stay informed about media influence.

Balancing Media and Reality

Teaching young people to critically evaluate media is essential. Encouraging questioning and understanding bias helps form realistic views.

Strategies include:

• Media Literacy Education: Schools and parents can guide young people to analyse media critically.
• Open Discussions: Conversations about media portrayals and their impacts on beliefs are vital.

Final Thoughts

Media, in its various forms, holds immense power. Its role in shaping young minds cannot be overstated. Though its current impact includes challenges, there is room for positive change. By promoting critical thinking and responsible media consumption, we can influence attitudes for the better regarding mental health in children and young people.