POSTPRODUCTION: Props

During this scene I examined letters related to mental health from the NHS to patients and created duplicates of these. I also made sure that the pills and packaging we used were used, so as not to perpetuate the idea that a person suffering with poor mental health symptoms is not necessarily at fault for ignoring a treatment plan.

During my research I also found a number of active campaigns working to try to diminish the stigma against taking or needing medication at all. Without this prior research I would not have realised the responsibility and care needed to include what is otherwise a small prop. 

A good example of research in a TV show, when dealing with mental health and medication is the way that the BBC's Eastenders producers worked with the UK's leading mental health charity Mind to monitor how Stacey's (a leading character at the time) bi-polar condition and deterioration was handled. Particularly when discussing those with mental disorders whom come off of medication. Mind’s Head of Information Bridget O’Connell has published advice on these issues, and as this advice is linked to the storyline, it has been given better exposure online.

Seen here 

Sources

Amanda Seyfried on medication stigma

Medication is not a sign of weakness

Christian Talbot on the stigma of mental health medication 

Myth about Mental illness medication