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The portrayal of mental health in Irish mainstream news media

Author

Listed:
  • Margaret Gallagher
  • Caitlin O’Leary
  • Aimee McGreal-Ballone
  • Richard Duffy

Abstract

Objectives: The portrayal of mental health in the mainstream news media is an important topic for discussion. Concerns about stigmatisation of those suffering from mental ill-health have been expressed for many years, leading to numerous anti-stigma campaigns. Previous Irish studies demonstrated an improvement in the tone and content of articles over time. This study aims to re-evaluate this topic, 19 years after it was last studied. Methods: Four Irish papers including the tabloid, broadsheet, online and compact paper with the highest readership were analysed daily for a 12-week period. Using pre-determined definitions based on previous studies, all articles or headlines incorporating psychiatry-related material were examined for tone, content, utilisation of terminology, reference to self-harm, suicide and violence. Results: In total, 735 articles (2.19/paper/day) were identified and analysed. The majority of articles were found to have a supportive or factual tone. A higher proportion of judgemental or sensationalist articles were found in the tabloid newspaper. An improvement was noted compared to previous Irish studies. A decrease in articles written by mental health professionals was noted. Only 5% of articles portrayed psychotic disorders, with many of these referring to violence. Compliance with relevant guidelines for reporting of suicide was good overall. Conclusion: There has continued to be an improvement in the tone and content of articles since previous Irish studies. The introduction of guidelines within this time may have played a significant role. Psychotic illness received limited coverage and was more likely to be portrayed in a stigmatising manner, guidelines relating to this could be of benefit. Engagement between psychiatrists and the media is important to improve the portrayal of psychotic illness and enhance awareness.

Suggested Citation

  • Margaret Gallagher & Caitlin O’Leary & Aimee McGreal-Ballone & Richard Duffy, 2023. "The portrayal of mental health in Irish mainstream news media," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 69(2), pages 467-475, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socpsy:v:69:y:2023:i:2:p:467-475
    DOI: 10.1177/00207640221111756
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Julien Mercille, 2017. "Media Coverage of Alcohol Issues: A Critical Political Economy Framework—A Case Study from Ireland," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 14(6), pages 1-13, June.
    2. Diane Levin-Zamir & Isabella Bertschi, 2018. "Media Health Literacy, eHealth Literacy, and the Role of the Social Environment in Context," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 15(8), pages 1-12, August.
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