The Today Show has quickly become my favorite outlet for MH story telling…bc they get “it” in ways so many news providers do not, when it comes to this topic.
We are a world divided now, down political lines. Fine, I get that. And ok, The Today Show is on “NBC.” Maybe you have a bias, pro or con, as to how NBC covers politics. That’s fine – we all have a right to opinions. But take politics out of it when it comes to reporting on this topic: The Today Show is nailing just the right angle to share these MH stories, to literally change the narrative. Their content group for this show…& their anchors & personalities, should be applauded.
So many examples: from how they brought together the parents of many of the student athletes we have recently lost to suicide – to talk about the DETAILS & commonalities of the THREAD that ties these events together…to the recent story about the teen who got a law changed in her state (that 11 states then followed) to allow for MH days off in schools.
Now this from rapper: Megan Thee Stallion. Notice the headline!!! It’s not about the disorder label. The label isn’t event mentioned in the headline. Like John Wall’s share, it’s about what happened TO her in her life, that’s relatable to all of us: loss of loved ones.
In Megan’s case, it’s sadly the loss of BOTH parents, leading to something so many can relate to as an additional challenge: who now can I talk to, if my parents (or those closest to me) are both gone? From there – it’s OK to go to therapy, & ask for help.
Even notice the call-out at the bottom: “A website for mental HEALTH resources for fans.” Way different than saying – resources for mental illness. Way different than saying – resources for navigating depression, specifically/exclusively.
Very encouraged by some of the recent developments in the space of public figures sharing, & with outlets like The Today Show sharing in the most inclusive & helpful way possible. These topics apply to us ALL.