
Mental Health Film Competition
Voices With Impact &
Sidney R. Baer, Jr. Foundation present...
Serious Mental Illness Short Film Competition
Voices With Impact's Serious Mental Illness Short Film Competition is an open call for short films that explore issues related to diagnoses of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. These conditions can result in impairments that interfere with a person's life and ability to function.
The Competition is supported by the Sidney Baer Jr. Foundation.

In 2024 we are shining on a light on serious mental illness. This competition is inspired by the life and legacy of Sidney R. Baer, Jr. and is focused on stories of those living with Serious Mental Illness.
How does it work?
We invite filmmakers to submit short films (5 Minutes or under) on the topic of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and/or bipolar disorder. The winning films will receive a $2000 cash prize and be inducted into our mental health film library for distribution across the US & Canada.
What are we looking for?
We're looking for short films that explore stories of people living with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and/or bipolar disorder that will spark conversations. The winning films will compassionately portray mental health experiences.
Eligibility?
We accept films up to 5 minutes in in length, of any genre, using Serious Mental Illness as the point of interest. Film topics may either be interpretive of Serious Mental Illness, or address it directly. We do not place any formal restrictions on submissions, and will consider all genres and types of short films, including submissions utilizing original footage, shared footage, photo stills, music, essays, screenplays, original art work and more. The film must however be your own original work and you must have the correct license for any materials used within the film. There is no fee for submissions. For full Competition Terms please click here.
How do I apply?
Read the FAQs, the full competition terms and submit your film
via the links below.
The Mental Health Film Competition is now live.
The deadline is Midnight PT March 17 2024.
Winners will be announced at our
Voices With Impact Festival in June 2024.
