The Power of Language and Portrayals: What We Hear, What We See
Webcasts
The webcasts, produced by SAMHSA in partnership with the Entertainment Industries Council, featured discussions among behavioral health professionals, entertainment creators, and people in recovery from substance use disorders. Access the webcasts.
About the Initiative
The educational initiative highlighted the importance of using appropriate terminology and language when writing about or depicting individuals with substance use disorders, or individuals who are in recovery. This approach helped to promote a realistic presentation of the issue, free from biased and discriminatory undertones. Learn more about this initiative.
Resources for the Media
- National Recovery Month in September increases awareness and understanding of mental and substance use disorders and promotes recovery.
- Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health reviews findings about substance misuse and how you can use that knowledge to address it.
- The Carter Center Journalism Resource Guide on Behavioral Health (PDF | 1.0 MB) helps with accurate, fair, and sensitive reporting and portrayals.
- Reportingonsuicide.org provides recommendations for media coverage of suicide and at-risk populations.
- Media Guidelines for Bullying Prevention is a federal resource for journalists covering this social issue.