In this episode of Look Again: Mental Illness Re-examined, we examine how media coverage shapes public perceptions of mental illness; especially schizophrenia. Featuring insights from journalism professor and CBC journalist Kathryn Gretsinger, the conversation explores the ethical responsibilities of reporting on complex and sensitive issues. From breaking news to long-form storytelling, we look at how language, framing, and repetition can influence stigma, and how more thoughtful, trauma-informed journalism can foster understanding instead of harm.

Timecodes:

(02:40) Journalism ethics: truth, accuracy, fairness, balance

(04:50) Do journalists shape public opinion?

(06:15) Common misconceptions in news coverage

(07:30) Why deeper reporting on root causes matters

(10:15) The importance of listening in storytelling

(12:20) Clickbait vs responsible journalism

(14:43) Challenges of short-form reporting

(16:45) Media literacy: how to verify information

(18:00) Ethical reporting on vulnerable communities

(20:21) Progress in Canadian mental health reporting

(22:25) Final reflections: language, impact, and responsibility