LAUSR

World Psychiatry 20:3 October 2021 tal health problems is depicted by the media may have an important impact on their use and perhaps also their effectiveness, decreasing or reinforcing stigma related to mental health problems. Without explicitly addressing issues of stigma and shame, those who feel alienated with mental health needs will remain mistrustful of those perceived as privileged, while, at the same time, those offering support will continue to place responsibility on those appearing to be unwilling to accept help. We need to empower a massive trusted workforce to deliver effective psychotherapies, harvesting the results of over five decades of research, to the large numbers in our societies who need them. This will require not only a significant change in the training of those delivering these treatments, but also an increased willingness on the part of mental health professionals to immerse themselves in the concerns of minority groups. Allyship requires a commitment which is long-term, not just during crises.