Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Student article on mental illness 'offensive'

Updated at 9:16 pm on 11 May 2009

The Mental Health Foundation says an article on mental illness published by a student magazine is offensive and ridiculous.

The article, on the website of the Canterbury University magazine Canta, criticises television campaigns about mental illness.

It says there is a genetic precursor to many disorders and those with mental illness should adopt children rather than having them themselves.

The foundation says that idea is ridiculous and the article, in general, crosses a line.

Canterbury University Students' Association says though the article does not reflect its views, the columnist has the right to express hers.

It believes the column is aimed at generating discussion about mental illness.

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