New image of psychiatry, mass media impact and public relations

Psychiatr Danub. 2010 Jun;22(2):145-8.

Abstract

The mass media has a powerful impact on public attitudes about mental health and psychiatry. The question of identity of psychiatry as a medical profession as well as of the future of psychiatry has been the subject of much controversial discussion. Psychiatry today has the historical opportunity to shape the future of mental health care, medicine and society. It has gained in scientific and professional status by the tremendous increase of knowledge and treatment skills. Psychiatry should build up new transdisciplinary and integrative image of a specialized profession, promote it and make it public. Good public relations are very important for the future of psychiatry.

MeSH terms

  • Forecasting
  • Humans
  • Mass Media*
  • Mental Health Services / trends
  • Psychiatry / trends*
  • Public Opinion*
  • Public Relations