#WorldMentalHealthDay - Through photography, we can see mental health differently

There is great research being done on mental health, but we believe the field could achieve so much more – to benefit so many more people – if it were more unified. At Wellcome, we want to help shape a new super-discipline of mental health science, in which scientists and clinicians work with a common purpose, using standardised measures and approaches.

As well as promoting this new approach, we also want to help change perceptions of mental health issues. There are still too many misconceptions and stigmas and stereotypes that get in the way of having open, constructive conversations about mental illness.

One of the best ways to change minds is by telling stories. And photography has a truly unique way of telling a complex story in an impactful way. That’s why we run the Wellcome Photography Prize. Last year’s entries and shortlist were breath taking examples of how powerful imagery can start conversations about how we respond to health challenges around the world.

Our prize theme for 2020 is mental health, and entries are now open until 16 December. We are particularly interested in how to visually address the issue of people living with or recovering from mental health problems.

I am honoured to return as chair of the judging panel, and I am looking forward to seeing the range of insights and perspectives that our entrants will bring to the theme.

By putting ourselves face to face with authentic, human stories, we can all enrich our understanding. And together, we can create a culture in which mental health can be more freely discussed and the search for treatments can better succeed.

https://wellcome.ac.uk/photoprize