Saturday, January 3, 2015

Raymond's next letter to the Straits Times, this time to ST LIFE: Film on recovery can help psychiatric patients


Raymond's next letter to the Straits Times, this time to ST LIFE:  Film on recovery can help psychiatric patients

My letter to The Straits Times Life – Section on Saturday 3rd January 2015 carries my letter on the above subject.

I have the utmost admiration for people who, despite their disabilities, have managed to turn their lives around and film-maker Bertrand Lee (left) is one of them (Back To Shooting After Loss Of Leg, Life! Dec 31).

There are several local poignant stories of persons with mental disorders who have, through the support of their caregivers, excelled in the arts.  Sadly, many view them as people who have no economic value.  As a result, many psychiatric patients are ostracised.

The media has an important role to play in destigmatising mental disorders.  It does not help when some dramas depict people with mental illness as trouble makers.

Perceptions of those with mental disorders can be improved if there are shows on success stories. Given that Lee has overcome depression, I urge him to produce stories on the recovery of patients. Once society is able to see that recovery is possible through support, stereotyping of those with mental disorders fade away.

 
 Raymond Anthony Fernando

 

No comments: