Breaking Barriers: How Public Health Marketing Campaigns Are Reducing Stigma and Improving Early Psychosis Care
G. Mcdermott, S. Chaudhry, V. SrihariIntroduction
Comprehensive marketing campaigns can serve as powerful public health interventions to reduce the duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), a condition heavily burdened by stigma (Srihari et al, 2022). Red Rock Branding, an international communications firm contracted to develop psychosis awareness campaigns in three U.S. states, works with local clinicians and media specialists to craft targeted messaging. Central to these campaigns is the inclusion of people with lived experiences, whose voices humanize the condition and challenge stigmatized stereotypes that contribute to public health disparities (Hatzenbuehler et al, 2013). By centering personal narratives, Red Rock builds empathy, reduces fear, and dismantles barriers to treatment. This approach aims to shift public perceptions and encourage earlier helpseeking behavior, ultimately reducing DUP and improving long-term outcomes (Yee, et al, 2024).
Objectives
Reframe marketing as an education process
Marketing
is
psychology. Understanding cognitive biases, emotional triggers, and decision-making helps psychologists communicate effectively without manipulation.
Marketing isn’t about selling — it’s about helping more people get access to the care and resources they need.
Methods
The barriers you remove are as important as the services you provide.
DUP is still an industry problem as many clients don’t follow through on seeking care because of, stigma, confusion about where to start, overwhelm with options.
Clarity beats cleverness: People in distress need clear, direct information.
Social proof matters: Testimonials, case studies, or even “you’re not alone” messaging reduce stigma and fear.
Results
Our reputation has been established with in the public health sector over the last twelve years by successful campaigns with Yale, Tulane and Columbia universities.
We were published in a peer reviewed