There has been much progress in building sensitivity regarding many groups that have suffered the indignity of ugly stereotypes. Mental illness seems to exist separate and apart from all these groups. Those living with mental illness are sometimes exempt from the sensitivity and compassion that writers, journalists, filmmakers, and television producers afford those living with illnesses such as cancer and diabetes.

People’s opinions are greatly influenced by what they read in newspapers, hear on the radio, and see on television and in movies. In a 1990 survey by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, respondents indicated that their primary source of knowledge about mental illness was the mass media. But, these images are rarely accurate. A report by Otto Wahl states that more than 70% of characters with mental illnesses in prime-time television drama are portrayed as violent, and more than one-fifth are shown as killers when in actuality, studies have shown that only a minuscule percentage of the violence in American society can be attributed to people who have mental illnesses.

We are bombarded with information at breakneck speed through a medium whose reach is unprecedented. The power and influence of the internet, combined with the already existing might of film, television, radio, and the printed word, provides us with a communication apparatus that is unparalleled. How that apparatus is utilized can make or break public opinion and perception. It is crucial that an avenue be made available for the countless number of talented writers, artists, filmmakers, and executives who use their creativity with integrity. If the media were to use their power and influence to educate instead of discriminate, they could change people's lives. There are many individuals in media and entertainment who are making contributions to the effort to combat stigma, including Glenn Close, actress and co-founder of Bring Change to Mind, and actors Joe Pantoliano and Jared Padalecki. 

Victims of discrimination have long used the power of the pocketbook to get the attention of the entertainment industry and the media. When people gather together to speak up about ugly and demeaning stereotyping on the screen and in print, sponsors and advertising executives listen and studios take notice. There are a number of advocacy initiatives focused on stigma in media and entertainment.