This week I had the pleasure to be asked to join a shortlisting panel to judge mental health journalist of the year. Firstly the people I was with were excellent, excellent knowledge of real mental health problems, with some of them users of service. I was also struck by the passion and commitment shown to improving the perception of mental ill health.
We judged radio and print media journalists, 19 in all. To prepare I had to read the submission articles, with some entries have several articles each. Also listen to radio broadcasts. I hadn't realised that there was good reporting on mental health in radio, and it was good to hear the information and debate. The reporting was really good and varied. In written journalism there was quite a range, with some excellent technical and informative writing. What I also saw was some top class writing that tackled difficult subjects. One in particular was outstanding for me and I really hope they win.
Long may good reporting and writing on mental health continue, I think I need to up my game.
