In recent years, television has evolved into a medium that not only entertains but also educates and provokes thoughtful discussions. One of the most significant and sensitive topics addressed by modern TV shows is mental health. Historically, mental health issues were often misunderstood, misrepresented, or stigmatized in popular media. However, a growing number of television series are breaking these stereotypes and providing nuanced, accurate depictions of mental health struggles. This essay explores several TV shows that have made significant strides in portraying mental health with sensitivity and authenticity.
“BoJack Horseman”: A Deep Dive into Depression and Addiction
“BoJack Horseman,” an animated series on Netflix, is widely praised for its honest and often painful exploration of depression, addiction, and self-destructive behavior. The show’s protagonist, BoJack, is a washed-up actor grappling with the consequences of his past decisions and his ongoing battle with mental health issues. Despite being a comedy, “BoJack Horseman” delves deeply into the complexities of depression, illustrating how it impacts not only the individual but also those around them.
The series doesn’t shy away from depicting BoJack’s struggles with addiction and his frequent relapses. It highlights the cyclical nature of addiction and the difficulty of maintaining sobriety. Furthermore, the show portrays how BoJack’s mental health issues affect his relationships and professional life, offering a comprehensive view of the multifaceted impact of mental illness. By presenting these themes through an anthropomorphic horse, the show creatively tackles serious topics while maintaining a level of accessibility and relatability for its audience.
“Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”: Breaking Down Stereotypes
“Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” a musical comedy-drama, takes a bold approach to mental health by centering its narrative on Rebecca Bunch, a woman diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD). The show stands out for its ability to balance humor with a sincere exploration of Rebecca’s mental health journey. Initially, Rebecca’s actions are portrayed through a comedic lens, often resulting in chaotic and humorous situations. However, as the series progresses, it delves into the underlying causes of her behavior, offering a thoughtful depiction of BPD.
The creators of “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” make a concerted effort to destigmatize mental illness by showing Rebecca’s struggles in a sympathetic light. The show emphasizes the importance of seeking help and the complexities of living with a mental health condition. Through its musical numbers, which often serve as a window into Rebecca’s psyche, the series creatively illustrates her internal battles and the impact of her disorder on her life. By doing so, “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” provides a nuanced portrayal of mental health that challenges stereotypes and promotes understanding.
“This Is Us”: An Intimate Look at Anxiety and PTSD
“This Is Us” is a family drama that has been lauded for its sensitive and realistic depiction of mental health issues, particularly anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The show follows the Pearson family across different timelines, exploring how past events shape their present-day lives and mental health. Characters like Randall Pearson and Kevin Pearson provide powerful narratives about living with anxiety and PTSD.
Randall, a successful businessman and father, battles with anxiety and panic attacks throughout the series. “This Is Us” does an excellent job of portraying how Randall’s anxiety affects his daily life, relationships, and career. The show highlights the importance of therapy and support systems in managing mental health conditions, offering a realistic and empathetic view of living with anxiety.
Kevin’s storyline delves into his struggle with addiction and PTSD, following a traumatic event in his past. The series sensitively depicts his journey towards understanding and coping with his trauma, showing how it influences his behavior and relationships. “This Is Us” excels in portraying the ripple effects of mental health issues across a person’s life, providing a compelling and authentic look at the challenges of living with anxiety and PTSD.
“Fleabag”: A Raw Portrayal of Grief and Depression
“Fleabag,” created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, is a dark comedy that provides a raw and unflinching look at grief and depression. The show follows the titular character, Fleabag, as she navigates her life in London following the death of her best friend and the dissolution of her relationships. While “Fleabag” is known for its sharp wit and humor, it is equally notable for its deep exploration of the protagonist’s emotional turmoil.
The series uses fourth-wall-breaking techniques to give viewers an intimate view into Fleabag’s thoughts and feelings, providing a candid portrayal of her struggle with grief and self-worth. The humor often serves as a coping mechanism for Fleabag, masking her deeper pain and loneliness. “Fleabag” succeeds in capturing the complexities of grief, illustrating how it can manifest in unexpected ways and affect every aspect of a person’s life.
“Euphoria”: A Stark Examination of Teen Mental Health
“Euphoria,” an HBO series, offers a stark and often disturbing examination of mental health issues among teenagers. The show centers on Rue Bennett, a high school student grappling with addiction and bipolar disorder. “Euphoria” is unflinching in its portrayal of Rue’s struggles, depicting the chaotic and destructive impact of her addiction on her life and relationships.
The series also explores a range of other mental health issues affecting its ensemble cast, including anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia. “Euphoria” does not shy away from the darker aspects of these conditions, providing a brutally honest depiction of the challenges faced by young people today. The show’s vivid and sometimes graphic storytelling underscores the urgency of addressing mental health issues among adolescents, highlighting the need for empathy and support in helping them navigate their struggles.
