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TV Shows That Portray Mental Health Issues
December 12, 2023
Mental health issues are often portrayed in popular TV shows these days. While some shows may only touch on these topics briefly, others delve deeper into depicting various mental illnesses and the struggles of living with them. Exploring mental health through TV shows helps reduce stigma and educate viewers. This blog will discuss some common mental health issues often portrayed in TV shows.
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Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are among the most commonly depicted mental health issues in TV shows. BoJack Horseman is a great example of a show that tackles both of these illnesses. The titular character BoJack struggles with depression, self-loathing, and using alcohol and drugs to cope. Through his journey of self-reflection and therapy, the show brings awareness to depression in an insightful way.
Other shows like Crazy Ex-Girlfriend also do an excellent job of portraying anxiety realistically. Rebecca Bunch experiences panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, and relationship anxiety throughout the series. Scenes where her anxiety is triggered really help viewers understand what it feels like to live with this condition.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder has also received significant representation on TV shows in recent years. One of the best portrayals is in the comedy series Maniac, where Annie Landsberg deals with bipolar II disorder. Viewers see her experience both manic and depressive episodes, as well as the ups and downs of managing her condition with medication.
Other notable depictions include Jane Villanueva from Jane the Virgin, who is diagnosed with bipolar disorder in season 2. The show highlights the challenges of living with the illness and finding the right treatment plan.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are another mental health issue sometimes explored on TV. In the Netflix series Insatiable, Patty Bladell develops anorexia and bulimia after being fat-shamed. While the show received criticism, it brought attention to these illnesses.
Other portrayals include Emily in Pretty Little Liars struggling with anorexia and Cassie in Skins battling both anorexia and bulimia. These depictions provide visibility while also showing viewers the unhealthy and sometimes dangerous behaviors associated with eating disorders.
Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are complex conditions that can be difficult to understand. However, some TV shows do an impressive job of portraying them.
One example is the character BoJack from BoJack Horseman, who exhibits clear traits of borderline personality disorder like fear of abandonment, unstable relationships, and self-loathing. His therapist Dr. Raphael also helps explain his condition to viewers.
Another notable portrayal is that of Carrie Mathison from Homeland, who struggles with bipolar disorder but also displays traits associated with borderline personality disorder such as impulsivity and unstable self-image. These nuanced depictions help combat stigma.
Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders are frequently explored on TV as well. Shows like Shameless and Orange is the New Black realistically depict the challenges of addiction. Viewers see characters struggle with alcoholism, drug abuse, and relapse.
Other impactful portrayals include Rue from Euphoria battling drug addiction or BoJack’s alcoholism in BoJack Horseman. These unflinching depictions bring awareness while also showing that addiction is a disease, not a moral failing. They highlight how substance use disorders impact people’s lives and families.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has also received representation, with shows realistically portraying the condition.
Homeland features Carrie Mathison struggling with PTSD after experiencing trauma as a CIA officer. Scenes depict her flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance. The show helps viewers understand how PTSD manifests.
Other notable portrayals include Claire from Six Feet Under coping with PTSD after a traumatic experience or Danny from The Haunting of Hill House dealing with PTSD after a childhood tragedy. These nuanced depictions combat stigma and educate audiences.
In Summary
In summary, many popular TV shows are doing an impressive job of bringing much-needed discussions of mental health issues to mainstream audiences. By authentically portraying a variety of conditions, they help reduce stigma while also educating viewers. As long as depictions are handled sensitively and accurately, TV has great potential to positively impact understanding of mental illness.
FAQs
How do TV shows help reduce stigma around mental illness?
TV shows reduce stigma by normalizing discussions of mental health, helping audiences relate to characters, and educating viewers about various conditions and treatments. Portraying characters living full lives despite mental illness challenges stereotypes. It also encourages those struggling to seek help by showing recovery is possible.
What are some criticisms of how TV shows depict mental illness?
Some criticisms include that depictions can be inaccurate or sensationalized. Conditions may be simplified for entertainment purposes. There is also a risk of stereotyping if writers do not properly research illnesses. Some shows have been criticized for using mental illness as a plot device rather than authentically representing experiences. However, most experts agree accurate portrayals do more good by raising awareness and understanding.
Meet Andrew, the entertainment enthusiast. He’s your go-to for movie reviews, TV series insights, and the latest on Hollywood’s rising stars. Join him for a dose of pop culture magic.
Meet Andrew, the entertainment enthusiast. He's your go-to for movie reviews, TV series insights, and the latest on Hollywood's rising stars. Join him for a dose of pop culture magic.
