TV3 Sunrise
The Issue
On 17 April, TV3's breakfast show Sunrise aired a story about internet dating. Correspondent Rachel Goodchild (who recently published a book on internet dating called '88 Dates') gave viewers advice on what 'warning signs' to look out for when going on a first date. One of the 'warning signs' suggested by Rachel was if a date disclosed having experience of mental illness.
The Response
Dear Sunrise,
Your Friday morning segment on dating advice, “Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore”, focused on negative things about potential dates which may be overlooked “when really alarm bells should be ringing.”
We were disappointed to see that included within this list of negative traits, along with alcoholism and the potential for being abusive, was experience of mental illness.
Were your correspondent Rachel Goodchild’s advice to be adhered to fully, the potential dating pool would be cut down considerably: 47% of New Zealanders will experience some form of mental illness at some time during their life.
Mental illness is a part of the human condition, and someone who is brave enough to disclose a mental health issue so early on in a relationship probably has a lot more self-awareness and strength than many others.
The Ministry of Health Like Minds, Like Mine campaign, of which the Mental Health Foundation is a partner, was set up to challenge stigma and discrimination against people with experience of mental illness. One of its most popular and memorable taglines is “know me before you judge me”, ironically referred to by Rachel Goodchild before she issued a warning to viewers about dating someone with a mental health issue.
The latest message from Like Minds, Like Mine is “what you do makes the difference”. Helping to counter myths and stereotypes about mental illness is one way the media can set an example and give some support to the one in five New Zealanders who will experience some form of mental illness this year.
Yours faithfully
Judi Clements
Chief Executive
Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
You too can respond to media coverage that you believe is stigmatising or discriminatory. Visit our Media Watch section for a step-by-step guide on how to make a complaint.
