Symposium

Abstract

BackgroundThe portrayal of psychiatry and psychiatric illness in the media has become an issue of increasing concern in the last decade. Internet is more accessible than ever before in the history of mankind. But at this dawn of Digital era more than 66% of the population is underserved by digital services. The population demographics accessing digital services is predominantly 16-29 year old youths, rest of the population are technologically challenged in terms accessibility and ease of use. Even in the digital era, print media are still among the most frequently identified sources of information. Print media has more penetration and accessibility than any other means of information.Aims1. Depiction of mental health across various mass communications.2. Impact and relevance of print media of mental health issue in digital era3. Smart use of print media in creating awareness of mental healthMethodsThe frequency and content of articles of psychiatric interest in print media were investigated. The tendency for these opinions to emanate from persons other than psychiatrists has been noted and other often less qualified individuals offer their ‘expert’ opinions.Results and ConclusionPrint media has been instrumental over the last century for anti-stigma campaigns, providing a voice for people with mental illness. It would be a disservice to the public to ignore the relevance of print media in digital era. All the more it is need of the hour to fortify and innovate smarter use of print media in digital era.