About The Project

The main objective of this final project is to inform others on mental health illness based on my psychology background, experience of being a behavioral technician, and a journalism student.

In preparation for this endeavor, I conducted research regarding prevalent mental health issues and how the mainstream media covers mental health. This contribution starts with a review of relevant literature on mental health in Arizona by providing current rankings and statistics on the state. Additionally I examine the following topics: autism spectrum disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. In each section I include the symptoms, diagnosis process, therapy options, and specific information dedicated to the audio stories produced.

Furthermore, the project examines journalists' mental health, media coverage on mental health issues, empathic journalism approach, and the importance of language when reporting on personal and sensitive topics.