Mind Media Awards 2021

The Mind Media Awards have been an opportunity to bring the media industry together to recognise those who have made an exceptional contribution to reducing mental health stigma.

Unfortunately, the Awards will not be going ahead this year due to the impact and uncertainty we’ve faced as an organisation brought on by the pandemic.

We know this year has been difficult for all of us. Lockdowns and restrictions have meant that people are watching more TV than ever. A vast number of us are seeing soaps and dramas featuring a mental health problem.

Our latest research shows one in five people who saw a mental health storyline realised that they had a mental health problem. We found that viewers who saw a mental health storyline then sought help for their mental health from a medical professional.

Our research shows it has never been more important for broadcasters to create accurate, sensitive storylines about mental health. That’s why our Media Advisory Service will continue to improve the quality, accuracy and sensitivity of media portrayals and reporting of mental health problems.  

We encourage media professionals to continue challenging the stereotypes that unfairly define people with mental health problems and contribute to negative public attitudes.

We will continue to support and promote media that promotes the voices of people with mental health problems. Reflecting on their achievements and everyday struggles on screen or in other media contributed to changing attitudes to mental health and is invaluable to ending mental health stigma.