This Photo Project is Redefining What Mental Illness Looks Like
March 03, 2017
A mental health advocacy campaign has created a collection of free stock photographs to help reframe how mental illness is portrayed in the media. The Be Vocal Collection contains images that depict the everyday lives of 10 Americans who have a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. In an effort to counteract the negative stereotypes that are frequently represented in the media, photojournalist Shaul Schwarz sought to convey a nuanced and realistic portrayal of mental illness. “Hopefully, someone looking at these photos understands that a mental health condition is just one aspect of someone’s life, and it can be managed like any other chronic illness,” said Schwarz. “It needn’t define someone.” The Be Vocal initiative is a collaboration between Getty Images; singer Demi Lovato, who is living with bipolar disorder; Sunovion Pharmaceuticals; and five mental health organizations. The 150 photos in the Be Vocal Collection are available online through Getty Images.
Spark Extra! Learn more about the Be Vocal Collection.