In an effort to destigmatizes mental health issues, American network HBO launched the new 'It's Ok' initiative. The campaign takes snippets of the network's most popular shows that depict various characters' struggles with mental health including Tony from 'The Sopranos,' Hanna from 'Girls,' and characters from 'Barry.'
The campaign also features testimonial from cognitive behavior therapist Dr. Ali Mattu who discourages people who are not suffering from OCD to lightheartedly make claims that they are. On the other hand, the It's Ok initiative informs viewers that mental health is "more common thank you think. and it's OK" and provides resources for support.
The mental health awareness initiative was done in collaboration with Wieden+Kennedy New York and will run in conjunction with World Mental Health Day.
Mental Health Awareness Initiatives
HBO Launched the New 'It's OK' Initiative About Mental Health
Trend Themes
1. Mental Health Decentralization - Creating decentralized and community-based initiatives to promote mental health awareness and resources.
2. Mental Health Representation in Media - Increasing the representation of mental health issues in TV shows and movies to help de-stigmatize these issues.
3. Mental Health Education for Non-sufferers - Providing education and resources for people who are not suffering from mental health issues to help them understand the challenges faced by those who are.
Industry Implications
1. Media and Entertainment - Opportunity to increase representation of mental health issues in TV shows and movies.
2. Healthcare - Opportunity to establish decentralized support networks and improve delivery of mental healthcare resources.
3. Technology - Opportunity to develop digital mental health solutions and support networks to make resources and services more accessible to people who need them.