Massachusetts General Hospital Center for
Mental Health and Media
The Center for Mental Health and Media is an outreach, production and research center devoted to mental health, behavioral health, neuroscience and healthy child development. Founded in 2001, this is the first organization of its kind in the United States to combine in-depth knowledge of mental health, public health and behavioral science with sophisticated media communication skills.

The Center, under the director of Larry Kutner, Ph.D., Cheryl Olson, M.P.H., S.D., and Gene Beresin, M.D., is a division of the Massachusetts General Hospital and an affiliate of Harvard Medical School. It collaborates with Harvard colleagues across institutions and disciplines.

Research shows that Americans get much, if not most, of their mental health information from media news and entertainment. Some programs perpetuate myths and misinformation. But when used well, the many forms of mass and targeted media—including newspapers, radio, television, and the Internet—can counter the inaccurate and destructive stereotypes. They can also provide information, reassurance and perspective that can transform the lives of mentally ill people and their families.

To accomplish these goals, the Center:

• Designs and produces media-based behavior change programs for a variety
of audiences, using a wide range of media.

• Consults on mental health issues to media producers and journalists.

• Educates the public and policymakers about mental health and media issues.

• Teaches academics and health professionals how to work more effectively with
media professionals.

• Conducts research on media effects, and the effectiveness of media programs
and campaigns.