“Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Stigma in America”

by | Apr 29, 2024 | ENGLISH

You will create a public service announcement in which you identify and discuss a current social issue/problem that is currently facing America.
In your PSA you should include basic background information on the issue and an explanation of why the public should take it seriously.
You should also offer potential solution(s) to remedy the issue.
Your PSA must include at least 3 rhetorical devices (logos, ethos, or pathos) (all three must be included to earn an Advanced).
Language should be grammatically correct and appropriate for your audience.
Reflection Questions:
1.What is the topic of your PSA?
2. Why did you choose this topic? (Why is it important for the public to know about it?)
3. Which rhetorical devices did you use in your PSA?
4. If you could have chosen a celebrity to endorse your PSA, who would it be and why?
(Create a title of your PSA)
Introduction:
Start your paper with a hook (a sentence or two to catch the reader’s attention)
Provide some background information about your topic.
What is the issue?
Who has it affected?
How long has it been a problem?
Why should the public be concerned about this issue?
Body Paragraph:
Provide examples of logos (include at least 3 more facts/statistics about your issue – make sure to cite your sources)
Provide examples of ethos (cite authorities/celebrities that are associated with this issue)
Provide examples of pathos (include emotionally-charged language)
Conclusion:
Provide some possible solutions to resolve this issue.
Include a Work’s Cited Page (so I know where your got your information)
You must include at least 3 different websites

 

 

 

Sample Answer

Sample Answer

 

 

 

 

Title: “Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Stigma in America”

Introduction:

Do you know that 1 in 5 adults in the United States experience mental illness each year? Mental health stigma is a pressing issue that affects millions of Americans, yet it often remains hidden in the shadows. The stigma surrounding mental health can lead to discrimination, isolation, and lack of access to proper care.

Background:

Mental health stigma refers to negative attitudes and beliefs that individuals hold about mental health conditions. It affects individuals from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, or background. This issue has been prevalent for decades, perpetuating misconceptions and preventing many from seeking the help they need. The public should take this issue seriously because it not only impacts individuals directly affected by mental health conditions but also contributes to societal misunderstandings and barriers to treatment.

Body Paragraph:

Logos:

1. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), only 43.3% of adults with mental illness received treatment in 2018.
2. Mental illness costs the U.S. economy $193.2 billion in lost earnings per year, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Studies show that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S., with rates increasing over the past two decades (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention).

Ethos:

Celebrities like Demi Lovato and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson have been vocal about their struggles with mental health, raising awareness and reducing stigma associated with seeking help.

Pathos:

Imagine feeling trapped in a cycle of shame and fear, afraid to speak up about your struggles. Mental health stigma perpetuates this cycle, leaving individuals suffering in silence and isolation.

Conclusion:

To address mental health stigma, we must start by fostering open conversations and education about mental health. Encouraging empathy, understanding, and support for those experiencing mental health challenges can help break down barriers. Accessible mental health resources, destigmatizing language, and prioritizing mental health education are key steps towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society.

Works Cited:

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – nami.org
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – cdc.gov
3. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – afsp.org

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