A unique initiative titled 'You Don’t Know the Half of It' has emerged, aiming to redefine how stories about substance use are presented in media. This campaign involves a special edition magazine called 'The Missing Issue,' produced by the Harris Project in collaboration with Us Weekly. The project focuses on co-occurring disorders (CODs), which involve both mental health issues and substance misuse. By re-examining the lives of celebrities like Matthew Perry, Liam Payne, and others, this special issue provides expert insights linking substance misuse with mental health challenges. The goal is to educate the public and foster understanding and compassion for those dealing with these complex conditions.
In an effort to address the widespread misunderstanding surrounding co-occurring disorders, the Harris Project, a non-profit organization founded by Stephanie Marquesano, partnered with Us Weekly to produce this groundbreaking edition. Following the tragic loss of her son Harris to an accidental overdose in 2013, Marquesano dedicated herself to prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives for individuals at risk of CODs. The charity's mission aligns with reshaping narratives around substance use and mental health struggles, ensuring that they are no longer misrepresented or overlooked.
The special edition delves into the stories of various well-known personalities who have battled substance misuse and mental health issues. Each narrative offers a deeper context through expert analysis, helping readers grasp the intricate connection between these two elements. By doing so, the publication aims to encourage more empathetic reporting within the media industry while promoting systemic reform in how such topics are handled. This shift not only benefits affected individuals but also fosters societal change regarding perceptions of these disorders.
Dan Wakeford, editor-in-chief of Us Weekly, emphasized the importance of evolving their storytelling methods when covering substance-related topics. Acknowledging past coverage shortcomings, he stated that 'The Missing Issue' represents a commitment to presenting these subjects with greater depth, honesty, and awareness. Through collaborations with other entities such as BMG and duotone audio group, who contributed a haunting rendition of Third Eye Blind’s song for the campaign, the message reaches audiences via multiple platforms including out-of-home advertisements in major cities and social media content.
This innovative approach towards addressing co-occurring disorders sets a precedent for future discussions in both journalism and society at large. By highlighting personal experiences alongside professional insights, 'The Missing Issue' seeks to transform public discourse concerning mental health and substance use challenges. Such efforts pave the way for improved understanding, fostering environments where individuals receive appropriate support without judgment or stigma.