TV series and movies have played a pivotal role in bringing mental health into the spotlight, offering viewers not only entertainment but also insight into the complexities of the human mind. By depicting struggles such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, these stories humanize mental health challenges and spark important conversations. Through powerful narratives and deeply developed characters, films and TV shows can break down stigmas, educate audiences, and encourage empathy for those facing mental health challenges.
In this gallery, we’ll explore some of the best TV series and movies that not only highlight mental health issues but also offer valuable lessons on understanding, supporting, and embracing mental well-being.
Although the steamy scenes made most of the headlines, 'Normal People' does a stellar job of portraying depression, anxiety, panic attacks, emotional and physical abuse, and grief through its two lead characters, Connell (Paul Mescal) and Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones). It sensitively addresses trauma, isolation, and the impact of social dynamics on mental well-being, particularly among young people.
Ted Lasso tackles complex emotional struggles with warmth, humor, and authenticity. It explores topics like anxiety, depression, grief, masculinity, parenting, vulnerability, leadership, loneliness, isolation, trauma, and systemic racism through its characters in a way that is both relatable and compassionate. Ted's journey, in particular, highlights the importance of addressing mental health openly, as he navigates his own challenges while supporting those around him.
'This Is Us' covers a range of mental health issues sensitively and thoroughly, including eating disorders, survivor's guilt, chronic anxiety, abandonment, alcoholism, drug abuse, dementia diagnosis, depression, and PTSD. The series explores how these challenges shape the characters' lives, offering a nuanced portrayal of their struggles and the importance of healing, support, resilience andmost importantly, family.
'Sex Education' addresses sexuality, identity, and emotional well-being, with humor and depth. The series portrays diverse characters grappling with anxiety, depression, shame, addiction, and self-esteem, emphasizing the importance of communication and speaking out. It also offers a sex-positive approach to sexuality education, destigmatizing sex and removing the shame around it.
'Euphoria' is an HBO drama that follows Rue (Zendaya), a teen struggling with grief, which leads to severe mental illness and substance misuse. The series explores the impact of trauma, addiction, and mental health on her relationships and self-identity. Through its vivid visuals and raw storytelling, Euphoria emphasizes the complexities of navigating emotional struggles and the importance of seeking help.
'BoJack Horseman' is an animated series that blends dark humor, satirical commentary, and emotional storytelling to explore complex themes through its flawed protagonist, BoJack. It offers an honest portrayal of addiction, depression, and self-destructive behavior, delving into the emotional toll of fame, trauma, and personal growth.
'Shrinking' is a TV series that follows a therapist, Jimmy, as he navigates his own grief and emotional struggles while helping his clients. Through the different patients, the show explores a range of mental health struggles, such as PTSD, anxiety, grief, and depression. Blending humor with heartfelt moments, 'Shrinking' delves into the complexities of therapy, while emphasizing the importance of human connection in the healing process.
Black-ish thoughtfully addresses mental health struggles, particularly around race, family, and societal pressures. The show explores stress, identity, postpartum depression, and the importance of therapy and self-care, using humor and social commentary to challenge stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health within Black communities.
'Spinning Out' provides a raw and nuanced portrayal of mental illness, particularly bipolar disorder, through the story of a young figure skater, Kat, who struggles with her mental health while pursuing her dreams. The TV series explores the complexities of living with bipolar disorder, showcasing the impact on relationships, self-esteem, and personal ambition.
The LGBTQ+ Netflix TV show 'Heartstopper' is a great series highlighting mental health because it thoughtfully portrays the challenges and experiences young people face, offering representation and understanding of diverse mental health struggles. The show addresses important issues like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, sexuality, and bullying with sensitivity and nuance, making these conversations accessible and relatable to its audience.
'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' is a musical comedy-drama that explores borderline personality disorder (BPD) through its protagonist, Rebecca Bunch. The show sensitively and humorously portrays anxiety and obsessive behavior, highlighting how BPD affects relationships, self-worth, and decision-making. It also addresses the serious topic of a suicide attempt. Using original musical numbers, the series effectively conveys the characters' inner thoughts and emotions.
'Atypical' follows Sam, a teenager on the autism spectrum, as he navigates the challenges of adolescence, relationships, and self-discovery. Through Sam’s unique perspective, the series covers themes of family dynamics, independence, and the search for romance and belonging. The TV series provides important representation of autism, offering insight into the experiences of those on the spectrum while challenging stereotypes and promoting greater understanding.
'Degrassi: The Next Generation' was one of the first teen dramas to openly address issues like depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm, addiction, PTSD, and suicide with sensitivity and authenticity. The show portrayed the struggles of diverse characters, normalizing conversations about mental health and emphasizing the importance of seeking help. By reducing stigma and providing valuable representation, Degrassi helped educate its audience on mental health while fostering empathy and understanding.
'Silver Linings Playbook' highlights the complexities of bipolar disorder, depression, and sex addiction in a relatable and empathetic way. Through the characters Pat (Bradley Cooper) and Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), it showcases the challenges of coping with mental illness while navigating relationships and personal recovery. The film beautifully blends humor, drama, and authenticity.
'Good Will Hunting' explores the effects of child abuse and abandonment into adulthood, featuring a young genius struggling with attachment issues and unresolved trauma. Through powerful therapy sessions, the film highlights the importance of making peace with the unchangeable past and how significant finding the right therapist is to foster healing and personal growth.
This coming-of-age movie adeptly shows the highs and lows of growing up with mental illness, focusing on a teenager dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower' is a powerful film that authentically portrays mental health struggles and the importance of supportive relationships, encouraging open conversations and empathy.
'Beautiful Boy' provides a raw and emotional portrayal of addiction and its impact on both the individual and their loved ones. The movie focuses on the father-son relationship between David (Steve Carell) and Nic Sheff (Timothee Chalamet). It highlights the devastating effects of drug abuse and the challenging journey toward recovery, emphasizing the importance of support, understanding, perseverance, and love.
Julianne Moore won the Oscar for Best Actress for her portrayal of a linguistics professor diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease in 'Still Alice.' It showcases the devastating impact of the illness on the sufferer and their families. Moore's performance was praised for helping to shine a light on Alzheimer's disease and the isolation and marginalization experienced by those affected.
'A Beautiful Mind' tells the true story of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician with schizophrenia. The film empathetically portrays his delusions and paranoia, helping audiences understand the condition. Through Nash's resilience and his wife Alicia's unwavering support, it highlights the power of love and connection. Celebrating Nash's achievements alongside his challenges, the movie breaks down stigma and inspires hope, showing that mental illness does not define a person's worth.
The 'Inside Out' films are excellent for all ages, helping audiences better understand the importance of embracing all emotions. They promote self-acceptance, empathy, and open communication, emphasizing that all feelings are valid and neither "good" nor "bad." 'Inside Out 2' deepens this message by normalizing complex emotional experiences like anxiety and uncertainty, offering valuable insight into emotional growth.
'Girl Interrupted,' based on Susanna Kaysen's memoir, follows a young woman's 18-month stay in a psychiatric hospital after a suicide attempt, addressing borderline personality disorder, self-harm, and the concept of what society deems as "crazy." The film's candid exploration of mental health challenges and societal perceptions provides a thought-provoking and empathetic narrative.
'About a Boy' explores themes of loneliness, emotional healing, bullying, and personal growth. The film follows Will (Hugh Grant), a wealthy, self-centered bachelor who forms an unlikely bond with a troubled young boy named Marcus (Nicholas Hoult). Through their relationship, the film sensitively addresses issues like depression, parental neglect, a suicide attempt, and the healing power of connection, highlighting the importance of empathy and human relationships in overcoming emotional pain.
'Rain Man' is an important film about mental health and neurodiversity, centering on the relationship between Charlie (Tom Cruise) and his autistic brother, Raymond (Dustin Hoffman). The film challenges stereotypes about autism by showcasing Raymond’s unique abilities and struggles, emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and acceptance. Through their journey, it sheds light on the complexities of caregiving and the value of connection and compassion.
'To the Bone' is a powerful film offering a raw and harrowing portrayal of eating disorders through the story of Ellen, a young woman with anorexia nervosa, played by Lily Collins. It highlights the emotional and physical challenges of recovery, the complexities of treatment, and the difficult dynamics within recovery centers, where progress and relapse often coexist.
'What's Eating Gilbert Grape' explores the emotional strain of caregiving within a family dealing with multiple mental health challenges. Through the perspective of Gilbert (Johnny Depp), the film sheds light on the difficulties of caring for his brother, Arnie, who has a cognitive disability, and his mother, who suffers from morbid obesity and reclusiveness. The film addresses themes of isolation, guilt, and the mental toll caregiving takes on individuals, while highlighting Gilbert's internal conflict and desire for personal fulfillment amidst these overwhelming responsibilities.
'Little Miss Sunshine' addresses mental health through themes of depression, suicide, and self-esteem, particularly through Frank, a scholar recovering from a suicide attempt. The film uses humor and heart to explore family dynamics, resilience, and the importance of connection and acceptance, ultimately offering a message of hope and understanding.
'Ordinary People' is a poignant exploration of post-traumatic stress disorder, examining the emotional aftermath of a family tragedy. After his brother's death, Conrad, the surviving son, grapples with depression and survivor's guilt. The film delves into themes of grief, guilt, and the strain on family relationships, while addressing the stigma surrounding mental health and the challenges of seeking therapy.
'Garden State' dives headfirst into emotional trauma, pharmaceutical abuse, and the journey to healing. Protagonist Andrew Largeman (Zac Braff) has been medicated since childhood by his father, a psychiatrist, and decides to stop taking his medications. The film highlights the effects of suppressing emotions and the challenge of reconnecting with true feelings. Natalie Portman's character, Sam, an eccentric epileptic and compulsive liar, challenges Andrew's perspective on life, questioning societal definitions of "normal" while promoting acceptance of difference and imperfection.
Sources: (Wonder Mind) (Screen Rant) (Mental Health.org) (The Teen Magazine)
Movies and TV shows humanizing mental health struggles
Stories breaking stigmas
TV series and movies have played a pivotal role in bringing mental health into the spotlight, offering viewers not only entertainment but also insight into the complexities of the human mind. By depicting struggles such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, these stories humanize mental health challenges and spark important conversations. Through powerful narratives and deeply developed characters, films and TV shows can break down stigmas, educate audiences, and encourage empathy for those facing mental health challenges.
In this gallery, we’ll explore some of the best TV series and movies that not only highlight mental health issues but also offer valuable lessons on understanding, supporting, and embracing mental well-being.