Media professionals and psychiatry experts gathered in Cairo to discuss how Arab media and drama are moving away from historical stigmas around mental illness toward more nuanced portrayals of individual disorders.
Panellists at the inaugural session of the “Al-Kelma Betefraq” conference examined how media language can either reinforce or reduce social stigmas. The event was organised by the Centre d’Études et de Documentation Économiques, Juridiques et Sociales in cooperation with the French Institute in Egypt and the MedFest Egypt festival.
Moderator Bashir Shousha described the evolution of public discourse from labelling mental illness as “madness” to addressing specific disorders with greater caution and openness. Mona El-Rakhawy, Professor of Psychiatry at Cairo University, distinguished between mental health as the capacity to manage life’s difficulties and mental illness as a pathological state that impairs daily functioning.
Filmmakers highlighted recent productions such as the film “32B” and the series “Midterm” as examples of drama that explores psychological themes without mockery. They stressed the importance of using art to foster understanding rather than deliver direct lectures.
Panellists also warned about the risks of self-diagnosis through online tools including AI, urging viewers to consult professionals. They called for continued institutional efforts to improve portrayals of mental health in media and drama.