GUEST COLUMN: Top Movies That Accurately Portray Mental Illness
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Top Movies That Accurately Portray Mental Illness
by Lewis Robinson
There are many modern depictions of mental health issues in movies across America. While some of these portrayals are more accurate than others, they all shed a light on how important it is to take care of your mental well-being. When watching these types of depictions, keep in mind that mental health issues can certainly be exaggerated and even glamorized in films, and so it’s a good idea to check in on your own mental state from time to time. Keep reading to learn about popular movies that illustrate the struggles of mental illness.
Films Depicting Depression
Depression can develop from a chemical imbalance in the brain or be caused by a traumatic event. Some people have an easier time feeling better after a depressive episode, while others may stay depressed for years without help.
The film Ordinary People (1980) is probably the best depiction of depression and PTSD among adolescent males. Prozac Nation (2001) and House of Sand and Fog (2003) contain accurate portrayals of depression among young adult women in American films.
Films Depicting Borderline Personality Disorder
Girl, Interrupted (1999) has several characters with good representations of borderline personality disorder, female antisocial personality disorder, and major depression. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) contains the best-known characterization of histrionic personality disorder. It is a classic film but the histrionics are a bit overdone so it is not strictly accurate.
Films Depicting Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder usually begins in young adulthood. At first, the symptoms might not be indicative of something wrong, but rather, just moods or phases that the young person is going through since there are usually many changes happening at that age. Two fairly recent films about bipolar disorder are Silver Linings Playbook (2012) and Infinitely Polar Bear (2014).
Films Depicting Eating Disorders
Precious (2009) is probably the best depiction of an eating disorder in film. Most of the time, eating disorders are thought of as mental illnesses in which the person doesn't want to eat. Anorexia would be an example of that. To the Bone features protagonist Ellen, a college dropout who struggles with anorexia. Through the help of an in-patient program and making amends with her mother, who suffered from postpartum depression, Ellen decides to make the decision to get better and choose life.
Films Depicting Antisocial Personality Disorder
Antisocial personality disorder is serious and often turns violent. Anyone who has seen A Clockwork Orange (1970) or Joker (2019) are aware that the protagonists have serious mental issues that if not addressed by a medical professional, can quickly cause the individual to spiral and be a danger to themselves and others.
Black Swan (2010) also does an exceptional job in its portrayal of the triggers of mental illness. It shows us that mental illness can be developed over time from traumas that happen in childhood and adolescence and that people are not necessarily born with it.
Conclusion
While everyone should be aware that films are primarily entertainment, they can provide valuable insight into common mental health struggles and afflictions people go through. A good first step to feeling happier is to try a supplement that contains mood boosting probiotics. Supplying your body with a nutrient it's been missing can quickly make you feel better. However, if you require more assistance, speak to your doctor and get the help you need.
