This informative 10-page booklet, produced in association with the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Schizophrenia Ireland, is not intended to preach at the media. Reporting complex issues like schizophrenia is itself a complex task. Mental illness - and in particular schizophrenia - has for far too long been associated with prejudice and discrimination.

It is vital that the media, which can powerfully shape the public's understanding of mental illness, does not originate or process material which will lead to further discrimination. This guide is intended to help reporters, sub-editors, feature writers and other journalists to understand the facts about schizophrenia.

 

It summarises what is known about the illness, its incidence, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. It also examines the evidence for a link between schizophrenia and violence, offers helpful materials for accurate reporting and includes a glossary of terms and the NUJ Code of Conduct (revised 1998).

 

Available from the Lilly Neuroscience Bureau,
c/o Huguenot House, 35-38 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Republic of Ireland.

 

For further information about the Campaign, please e-mail: stigma@rcpsych.ac.uk

 

Press releases. Related press releases from the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Links to other websites