Competition Guidelines

Writing holds great power and can influence public opinion about people with mental illness in positive and negative ways. People’s attitudes can reinforce stigma and lead to discrimination, which is a barrier to recovery and being able to live a full life.

 

When handled well, writing about mental health can:

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• change public misconceptions

• challenge myths and educate people about mental health

• change attitudes that reinforce mental illness stigma and lead to discrimination

• encourage people in distress to seek help

• support hope and recovery.

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When handled poorly, writing about mental health can:

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• make it less likely that people experiencing mental distress will ask for help

• mislead the public about what experiences of mental illness and mental health care are like

• reinforce misguided beliefs that people living with a mental illness are dangerous and to be feared

• increase feelings of shame and isolation for people experiencing distress.

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​CHECKLIST

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• Language:​​ Words can help or hurt others. Use language that promotes inclusivity and reduces stigma and discrimination.

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• Sources: Information about mental illness, treatments and the sector are changing constantly. For reliable, accurate and up-to-date information consult widely with experts in the sector and the Mental Health Foundation.
   

• Balance: Include the voice of people who have experience of mental illness and/or use mental health services, along with their whānau, support people, kaumātua or kuia where relevant. Also consider showing people as more than their illness.
   

• Cultural sensitivities: Ensure different cultural worldviews on mental health and wellbeing are considered. Seek expert cultural opinion or perspective from kaumātua, kuia and Pasifika mātua

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• Helplines: Include appropriate helpline numbers to support help-seeking.