EOC Chairperson Mr Ricky CHU Man-kin published an article in Ming Pao Daily News on 2 September 2022, calling out media stereotypes of persons living with mental health issues for perpetuating prejudice and jeopardising prospects of recovery for the community.

Referring to an episode of a local TV drama series aired last month in which a character recovering from mental illness goes on a killing spree, Mr Chu wrote, “Such sensationalism only does harm to society. It reinforces ungrounded myths that equate mental illness with a propensity for violence, and further isolates people facing mental health problems who are already being marginalised.”

Mr Chu continued, “Members of the wider community may also have reservations in finding help and support when they genuinely need it, all because of the entrenched stigma around mental health issues.”

Given the far-reaching influence they wield, it is best for mass media to make socially conscious choices when portraying underrepresented communities. It is a choice between fuelling existing prejudices and empowering the marginalised, one that matters not only for the well-being of the community being portrayed, but also for society as a whole. 

• Read the full article (Chinese only)