Let’s be very frank- we not only watch TV Shows that are funny and provide a lot of entertainment, but we also watch shows that provoke a sense of curiosity and fear in us because that is some thrill.
Television shows have a very special ability to modify how we view issues we once thought were extremely complicated. And there’s no doubt when it comes to topics around mental health as it stands at the forefront.
Mainstream media portrayals of psychological disorders have taken an entirely new form in the past few years and more and more are coming out. It’s Shows like Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and BoJack Horseman, very entertaining yet they explore challenging stereotypes while engaging in conversations about mental health and mental illness.
So, sit back with your remote in hand, and join us for popular television shows as we delve into psychological disorders.
6 Intriguing TV Shows That Talk About Psychological Disorders
1. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend- Borderline Personality Disorder
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is the story of Rebecca Bunch, a young woman who impulsively decides to move across the country for her high school boyfriend Josh. Sounds like a typical romantic comedy, right? Just like a casual fun watch?
But you are wrong. This show is more than just romance and comedy and takes us through layers of complexity quickly when it delves into the struggles of Rebecca’s mental health.
One of the most defining features of the show is how it runs through the psychological disorder- Borderline Personality Disorder, raw, realistic, and relatable. Rebecca’s emotional pendulums, fear of abandonment, and turbulent relationship touch upon the complex symptoms of being diagnosed with BPD.
The bad days aren’t avoided in this show, nor are they smoothed over. This would come off as refreshing yet very impactful.
2. BoJack Horseman- Depression and Substance Abuse
BoJack Horseman is an animated series based on the life of a washed-up actor from a sitcom. Now, this might sound lighthearted., but think again! The show goes into all the dark corners of fame and talks about addiction, and depression.
BoJack’s depression, as well as his attempts at substance abuse, show a shocking level of honesty which not many shows have shown before. The show, not once tried to glamorize addictions and instead portrays the reality of living with psychological disorders. Characters often go through the consequences of such actions, and there is sometimes a stark reminder of those challenges associated with psychological disorders.
3. The Sopranos- Anxiety and Depression
The Sopranos is a well-known crime drama but it is more than just any crime drama as it serves as an in-depth understanding of the psyche of Tony Soprano, who is the main character suffering from anxiety and depression.
From the first episode, we can see that Tony, the protagonist is having panic attacks and his mental health deteriorates with the weight of the criminal lifestyle that he has. It looks into how he copes with the problems while attempting to continue on this road of maintaining his courage and bravery in the criminal field.
The heart of the series is Tony going for therapy sessions with his psychiatrist, Dr. Melfi. The therapy, in this aspect, provides a peephole into the complex world of therapy and the difficulty that people go through while asking for help.
This show breaks a lot of stereotypes as a macho character who is very brave and seems like a person who would not have problems of his own, and requires help in terms of therapy marks another historic move in erasing the stigma that surrounds getting mental health help.
4. Mad Men- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder And Substance Abuse
Mad Men is set in the 1960s and is a narration of the lives of advertising executives and their day-to-day struggles, touching on various psychological issues prevalent at the time.
The series, in the most simple way, addresses PTSD through its characters, such as veterans returning from war and it’s a beautiful depiction of how things pan out. Another theme explored is Substance abuse which is rampant, reflecting the social norms of the time and the escapism many sought in alcohol and drugs.
5. This Is Us- Anxiety and Depression
This Is Us is a US-based drama heart-warming drama that follows and weaves the lives and struggles of the Pearson family across different timelines. In the context of family relationships, anxiety, grief, and depression are common themes as seen in the characters’ sufferings.
The show goes deep into how grief, anxiety, and depression relate to the individual and the way they affect the whole family, thus making the audience increasingly empathetic.
This Is Us is one of the most beautifully written shows which emphasizes opening up about mental health. Through their characters, it becomes easier for viewers to see and understand vulnerability as the basis of their struggle; the message resonates strongly with many.
6. The Mentalist- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
In The Mentalist, we follow Patrick Jane, a former psychic medium turned consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation, as he solves crimes using his keen observational skills. The psychological disorder that is explored in this American Drama Series is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Jane exhibits traits of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, particularly in his meticulous attention to detail and routines which are two symptoms of OCD. The show incorporates these elements into its narrative, making Jane’s struggles an integral part of his character development.
The medium through which one talks about mental health doesn’t matter much, but what matters is talking about it and taking the conversation to as many people as possible. From Crazy Ex-Girlfriend to The Mentalist, these six TV shows have made significant contributions to the portrayal of psychological disorders in mainstream media.
The six TV Shows mentioned not only amuse us and give us a good time but also inform and stimulate vital discussions about mental health by tackling mental health with integrity and nuance. Take a moment to consider how these stories deepen our comprehension of the human psychological condition the next time you binge-watch!
If you are someone who is struggling to deal with day-to-day challenges, try talking to a psychologist today!
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