Hey there, cinephiles of The Better Normal! For some time now, various sectors of society have been working to remove the stigma surrounding mental health. In this effort, TV series and movies play a crucial role. Art helps us see beyond the surface. It prompts us to reflect on the issues we face as a society and brings certain topics to the forefront. That’s why today we bring you these 5 series available on different streaming platforms to continue reflecting together on the importance of talking about mental health.
1. “The Bear” – Navigating Grief and High-Pressure Environments
I’ve watched many series in my life, but “The Bear” was the best. It not only portrays the world of restaurants incredibly well but also addresses issues like grief, stress, mental health, and suicide.
It’s a humane, captivating, and gentle piece. This cinematic masterpiece tells the story of gourmet chef Carmy, who returns to Chicago to run his family’s restaurant after his brother’s suicide. I just finished it and highly recommend it.
- Duration: 3 seasons.
- Available on Star+.
2. “Ginny and Georgia” – Complex Family Dynamics and Personal Struggles
I love stories told from a teenager’s perspective. Coming-of-age films are my weakness. I believe that young people have a lot to say. Undoubtedly, adolescence is a very problematic stage of life, and portraying it is a challenge that this series has excellently met. That’s why I liked “Ginny and Georgia” so much.
The series addresses issues such as self-harm, eating disorders, and other mental health problems in teenagers. “Ginny and Georgia” tells the story of a young mother and a daughter with a very special relationship. But it also shows how unresolved issues can affect our relationships with others and with ourselves.
- Duration: 2 seasons.
- Available on Netflix.
3. “This Is Us” – Multigenerational Emotional Resilience
I have one word for “This Is Us”: WOW! Honestly, I can’t believe I didn’t watch this series sooner. I watched it recently and it really changed something in me. It excellently clarified how family relationships work. Additionally, it highlights how certain actions can cause trauma in future generations.
The series not only deals with intrafamily relationships but also addresses mental health. Grief, anxiety, depression, alcoholism, and drug addiction are some of the issues “This Is Us” explores.
- Duration: 6 seasons.
- Available on Star+.
4. “Euphoria” – The Stark Reality of Adolescent Pressures
“Euphoria” portrays the intense and often harsh realities of modern teenage life. It focuses on issues such as drug addiction, sexuality, and social media influence. Through the eyes of its protagonist, Rue, who battles drug dependency and mental health issues, the show explores the impact of external pressures on today’s youth. It serves as a crucial reminder of the need for compassion and the importance of mental health resources for teenagers navigating their formative years.
- Duration: 2 seasons.
- Available on Max.
5. “BoJack Horseman” – A Candid Look at Depression and Redemption
“BoJack Horseman” breaks the mold with its unique approach to discussing serious topics like depression, addiction, and self-destructive behavior through dark humor and profound storytelling. BoJack, a has-been TV star, grapples with his personal demons in a way that many find surprisingly relatable. The series does not shy away from depicting the ugly truths about mental health struggles, offering viewers a raw, unfiltered look at the paths to recovery and the often bumpy road to better self-understanding and acceptance.
- Duration: 6 seasons.
- Available on Netflix.
These series not only make for compelling viewing but also serve as important educational tools that help demystify mental health issues. By presenting characters with nuanced emotional landscapes, they encourage us to empathize and initiate conversations about mental health. Have you already seen them? Which ones would you add to our list? 🙂
Here are some tips on How to Start Talking About Mental Health.
