Fura’s film portrays mental health issues of mothers that may be misunderstood or receive inadequate treatment. KVIE Public Television’s documentary tells stories of hope, resilience, and recovery of Californians facing mental health challenges. Excerpts from the films may be viewed here.
Dark Side of the Full Moon and A New State of Mind were two of six films selected for the film festival at the 61st Annual Program Meeting as part of CSWE’s continuing efforts to highlight classroom resources for social work educators. Audience members rated the films.
Said Fura, “Maternal mental health complications are the most common complication of childbirth but the ones most often underdiagnosed and untreated. The impact on mothers and infants is devastating and carries long-term consequences. When we made this film, we set out to tell a story to make people care, to start a conversation, and to inspire action.
Said David Lowe, president and general manager of KVIE Public Television, “We’re honored that our broadcast documentary A New State of Mind: Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness was selected as a winner of the Audience Choice Award at the Council of Social Work Education’s 2015 Film Festival. Conceived as a documentary for all Californians, the film has now aired more than 150 times on PBS stations not only in California but in nearly 25% of all U.S. television markets. Mental health issues affect everyone in some way. Through education and understanding, all of us who have influence over those who struggle can help to end stigma and start the healing.”
“We’re pleased to present this award to Ms. Fura and KVIE Public Television,” said Darla Spence Coffey, CSWE president and chief executive officer. “Their work highlights the importance of high-quality care in meeting the needs of all those affected by mental illness—for consumers and caregivers alike.”
CSWE is a nonprofit national association representing more than 2,500 individual members as well as graduate and undergraduate programs of professional social work education. Founded in 1952, this partnership of educational and professional institutions, social welfare agencies, and private citizens is recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation as the sole accrediting agency for social work education in the United States.
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