Psychology professor, author to discuss ‘Media Myths about Mental Illness’

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

            YORK, Pa. – A University of Hartford psychology professor and author will discuss “Media Myths about Mental Illness” at 3:30 p.m., April 30, in York College of Pennsylvania’s Life Sciences theatre. The talk by Otto Wahl, sponsored by the psychology program, is open to the public free of charge.

            Wahl is a researcher and writer whose work has focused on the discrimination, prejudice and stigma that are often directed toward those living with mental illnesses. He has published many research articles in journals and public education articles in newsletters of mental health organizations. In addition, he is the author of two books: “Media Madness: Public Images of Mental Illness,” which describes and discusses the stigmatizing ways mass media present mental illnesses; and “Telling Is Risky Business: Mental Health Consumers Confront Stigma,” which describes what people with mental illnesses said about their personal experiences of stigma and discrimination.

            Wahl has also given numerous talks to mental health advocacy groups around and country and has made appearances on radio and television programs. In addition, he consults with a number of mental health advocacy groups to improve public understanding of mental illnesses, including the National Mental Health Association, National Alliance on Mental Illness and the Carter Center Mental Health Program.

            Located in southcentral Pennsylvania, York College offers more than 50 baccalaureate majors in professional programs, the sciences and humanities to its 4,600 undergraduate students. The College also offers master's programs in business, education and nursing. A center of affordable academic excellence, York is dedicated to the intellectual, professional and social growth of its students. The College helps them develop a concrete plan to attain academic growth and career success; encourages them to try in the “real world” what they learn in the classroom; and prepares them to be professionals regardless of the career they pursue.

 

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