The National Union of Students (NUS) has announced an innovative award to be given for the positive portrayal of people with mental health problems.

One in four people will be affected by mental health problems during the course of a year, yet discrimination is still rife, particularly in the media where negative stereotypes and derogatory language are often used. "Tomorrow's Minds" research conducted by Opinion Leader Research showed that among young people aged 16 to 24 years, 61% used the words "psycho," "schizo," "nutter," and "loony" while at the same timeconsidering racist language to be taboo. In addition, 80% believed that having a mental health problem could lead to discrimination and 55% would not want anyone to know if they had a mental health disorder. In commenting on who they believed to be the major perpetrators of mental health discrimination, 62% identified the media, 65% people their own age, and 68% identified employers. The study used qualitative and quantitative methods and involved 500 young people throughout the United Kingdom.

The NUS is presenting the award to help challenge these discriminatory attitudes and stereotypes. The award is sponsored by "Mind Out For Mental Health," an antidiscrimination campaign coordinated by the Department of Health and of which the NUS is an active member.

The judges will be looking for representations of people with mental health problems which also see them as rounded people with personalities and not just a set of symptoms; writing that challenges and helps dispel the stigma and discrimination which many people with mental health problems experience; and articles that use appropriate language to describe mental health problems. Articles can be written by more than one person.

Rachel Cashman, a spokeswoman for the NUS, said, "The award links welfare issues and student media in a positive representation for people with mental health problems." The award will be presented at the 2001 student journalism awards in October in association with the Independent newspaper. For entry forms call Karen Dunphie on 020 7561 6504, or email karen@nus.org.uk. The closing date for entries is 31 August.