Purpose: Create a Public Service Advertisement (PSA) about an important social issue.

Question

Summary:
In this assignment, you will publicize an important issue. Consider issues that have
come up in texts you have read recently. Research the issue and create a print PSA
and a plan for a video PSA. Your plan should include a storyboard that reflects a
compelling visual presentation with evidence to support the issue you choose.
Assignment Prompt
Create a plan for a video PSA about a topic of social relevance. Make a compelling
visual presentation with facts and details to support the issue. State your issue in the
form of a claim, explain why it is important and what people need to know about it, and
provide reasons and evidence. Finally, create a print form of your ad to accompany the
video plan.

Answer 1

Public Service Advertisement (PSA) Plan

Topic: Mental Health Awareness

Issue Statement:

"Mental Health is as important as Physical Health; yet, many people suffer in silence due to stigma and lack of resources."

Importance:

Mental health challenges affect millions worldwide, yet they are often overlooked or misunderstood. The stigma surrounding mental health prevents individuals from seeking help, leading to unnecessary suffering. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives. Raising awareness about mental health is critical to fostering understanding, encouraging support, and helping individuals seek the help they need.

Video PSA Plan

Visual Elements:

1. Opening Scene (0:00-0:15):

   • Visual: A bustling city street; people walking, phone notifications pinging, and a brief glimpse of someone sitting alone, looking dejected.
   • Voiceover: "In a world that never stops moving, how often do we stop to check on our mental health?"

2. Statistics Montage (0:15-0:30):

   • Visual: Quick cuts of text graphics displaying facts like:
     • "1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue."
     • "Less than half of those affected receive treatment."
   • Background audio: Somber music that transitions into a more hopeful tone.

3. Personal Testimony (0:30-0:50):

   • Visual: A close-up of a young woman sharing her story in a cozy room.
   • Voiceover: “I felt alone and lost, but I didn’t know how to ask for help… until I decided to change that.”
   • Subtitle: "Support is available."

4. Call to Action (0:50-1:00):

   • Visual: A diverse group of people standing together, holding hands or embracing each other.
   • Voiceover: "It's okay to not be okay. Let’s break the stigma together. Reach out, speak up, and support one another."
   • Text overlay: "Call 1-800-273-TALK or visit www.mentalhealth.gov"

5. Closing Scene (1:00-1:15):

   • Visual: A serene nature scene, people engaging in supportive conversations.
   • Voiceover: "Mental health matters. Be the support someone needs today."
   • Organization logo and tagline: "Your Mind Matters - Let's Talk!"

Print PSA Design

Headline:

"Break the Silence, Break the Stigma: Mental Health Matters!"

Visuals:

• An image of a diverse group of individuals (various ages, ethnicities) with supportive gestures (e.g., hugging, listening).

Body Text:

• "1 in 4 people face mental health challenges. You are not alone!
  • Support a friend, reach out, or seek help for yourself.
  • Remember, mental health is essential to our overall well-being."

Call to Action:

• "Take the step today!
  Call 1-800-273-TALK or visit www.mentalhealth.gov for resources, support, and information."

Additional Elements:

• Logo of a mental health awareness organization at the bottom.
• QR code that links directly to mental health resources.

Evidence to Support the Issue:

1. Statistical Evidence: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), mental illnesses are real and prevalent, affecting millions in the U.S. alone.
2. Expert Endorsements: Mental health professionals and advocacy organizations stress the importance of recognizing mental health as part of overall health.
3. Personal Stories: Sharing authentic stories from individuals who have overcome or are managing mental health challenges can create a deeper link to the audience.

By spreading awareness through both video and print formats, the message will reach diverse audiences, fostering understanding, empathy, and support for mental health issues.