Mental Illness in Film & TV: Depression
It can be difficult to understand what depression actually looks like in daily life. We can read the symptoms but do we truly know what it would look like if we or someone we love displayed those symptoms?
Film and TV can be an incredible resource for us to truly understand mental illness. Here are some characters that I believe are very realistic portrayals of depression.
Kiki, Kiki’s Delivery Service
Kiki experiences a loss of passion and identity, leading to a depressive episode in which she is unable to do the things she loves and communicate with beings she cares about. Kiki takes a break and finds solace in being with others while she spends time trying to understand her feelings.
Diane, Bojack Horseman
Diane struggles with depression throughout the series. As a writer, she struggles with the decision to take antidepressants in fear that it will stifle her creativity. Diane’s character realistically portrays symptoms of depression, the benefits and side effects of antidepressants, and the process of figuring out who you are without depression. Watch season 6 episode 10 “Good Damage.”
(this is my favorite representation of depression in media)
Joy/Jobu Tupaki, Everything Everywhere All At Once
This character experiences the negative thinking and loss of faith in existence common for individuals with depression. This leads her to create a portal that allows her to escape the universe, symbolizing suicidal ideation and hopelessness. Through connection and acceptance from her mother and talking about these feelings, she is able to pull herself out of this mindset. Click here to watch the weirdest scene that’s ever made me cry.
Frank, Little Miss Sunshine
After a breakup and professional setback, Frank has recently attempted suicide and has to be under constant watch of his sister. In spending time with his dysfunctional family, he is unable to access the barriers he typically uses to isolate himself. Throughout the film, he becomes more open to new experiences and perspectives and gains a different perspective on his value and place in the world.
Craig, It’s Kind of a Funny Story
Craig, a 16 year-old who is excelling in school and has a generally good life, has a fear of failure that leads him to believe that he is not good enough. After experiencing suicidal ideation, he checks himself into a mental hospital, connects with other patients, and learns about depression. This film depicts how depression is an illness that can affect anyone and does not have to come from an outside source or event.
