Pfizer Mental Health Journalism Awards opens for entries

Entries are now open for the 2012/13 Pfizer Mental Health Journalism Awards. The awards encourage more writers to become involved in this most misunderstood and least reported on area of health writing. Closing date for entries is Monday, 13 August 2012.

Pfizer, together with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) are awarding two journalists a stipend of R25 000 per person and attendance at the SASOP Conference to be held in Johannesburg 7-11 September 2012.

Brian Daniel, CEO and country manager of Pfizer South Africa's Biopharmaceutical Division says, "The company is honoured sponsor this award, which recognises outstanding health journalism for another year. It is part of our commitment to ensuring that mental health is better understood and therefore appropriately reported on by health journalists."

Raise awareness

A panel consisting of top names in South African media and mental health professionals will judge entries.

Last year's awardees had their work published in major newspapers and magazines in South Africa and reportedly found that the award opened many doors. Journalists are not required to leave their employment during their award year and are encouraged to choose timely projects that may educate the public and raise awareness about important mental health concerns.

For more, email Marion Scher on az.oc.noci@onruoj.