Mainstream media today: the contemporary challenge in rebranding modern psychiatry

Abstract

This column article discusses about modern psychiatry. While the issue of stigmatisation of psychiatry and psychiatrists is one that requires attention today, the demonisation of psychiatrists in fiction is an unashamedly historical piece. While media driven stigmatisation of psychiatry continues to challenge patients and psychiatrists, engagement with the populist, mainstream, contemporary media is essential. It may not be the same media enjoyed by highly educated, erudite psychiatrists, but mainstream media is a powerful force which influences vast numbers of people from all walks of life. To harness its power, we first need to tune in. Then we need to participate because if we do not, the cultural conversation will continue without our voices being heard. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved)