2 Movies and TV Shows that Misrepresent Depression (and 3 that Get it Right)

Depression affects millions worldwide, yet it is still a stigmatised and misunderstood condition. Arguably, the entertainment industry is guilty of perpetuating harmful depression stereotypes, though things have improved in recent years.

Today, Bryce Evans explores two movies and TV shows that succumb to mental health clichés perpetuated by the media. Next, he shares three of his favourite examples of depression portrayed “right” on the silver and smaller screens.

People tend to spend a lot of time in front of a screen. Whether at a theatre or binge-watching shows at home, a good chunk of our time can include watching TV and movies.

It can be all too easy to sit, relax, and enjoy a story without stepping back to think about what's happening. In truth, we need to be aware and critical of what we're watching. TV and Hollywood can promote harmful mental health stereotypes, especially when accuracy comes at the expense of drama or a happy ending.

So, we need to ask ourselves: what is the show or movie trying to say? Is it a realistic or acceptable depiction of life? Does it have a fair representation of depression, anxiety, or the mental illness it's trying to convey? Does it perpetuate harmful depression stereotypes? How does a character deal (or not deal) with a mental health setback?

Thankfully, we're starting to see a significant shift in the entertainment industry. Harmful mental health stereotypes due to lazy writing are becoming less common in the media. As more people are calling out what Hollywood gets wrong in movies and TV, we're beginning to see more authentic, honest, and thoughtful characters on our screens.

But there's still more work to do.

Here are a few examples of what Hollywood gets wrong when portraying depression. Then, to end on a more positive note, we'll move on to some examples of what Hollywood gets right.

I understand that mental health issues may look different for everybody, and these examples are my opinion only.

Two examples of depression misrepresented in film and TV

13 Reasons Why: Suicide is vengeful 

There was a lot of conversation and criticism surrounding “13 Reasons Why” immediately after its release. The biggest problem with the series is how it romanticises suicide.

The show paints suicide as a way to seek and gain revenge against someone who has done you wrong. This is of the many harmful depression stereotypes that concern suicide, and it only adds to the stigma. This portrays an unrealistic vision of the consequences and aftermath of someone taking their own life. 

The show also wholly neglected to offer audiences any hope. The suicide remains off-screen so it doesn't get in the way of the "mystery." We don't see the lead asking for support for their mental health or talking about their feelings until after the "main event."

Silver Linings Playbook: All you need is love, apparently

“Silver Linings Playbook” had a lot going for it, especially when representing the intricacies of mental health. Unfortunately, it ends with the message that love will cure all.

This is another example of what Hollywood gets wrong when handling depression and other mental health issues. Love can't "cure" depression or bipolar, and we know relationships are rarely the answer to all our problems. Real life is much more complicated, and treating mental health conditions can take months or years.

We need fictional stories to depict that reality. Doing so will make it easier to accept our struggles with mental health and take the necessary steps to cope and recover.

Three TV and movie examples that get depression "right"

BoJack Horseman: Depression isn’t just a plot device

There's been a ton of buzz around "BoJack," and for good reason. After a rocky first season, this show accurately depicts the raw and torturous inner thoughts many of us face when dealing with depression. BoJack repeatedly follows the same choices and habits that negatively impact his depression – but he loathes himself for doing so and seems trapped by his own mind.

While it may be "the saddest comedy," I think that's why it's so powerful. Many shows tend to throw depression into the mix whenever it seems fit, but this show centres on living life with it. Depression isn't used in the real world when it's convenient for your life, so why should it be for the plot?

Mr Robot: Diverse representations of mental health

I was pleasantly surprised with the character Elliot in "Mr Robot." Many scenes in that show had played out in my own life before. Because of this, I felt connected with this character and understood that I was not alone in my struggles. The show feels real and raw, similar to "BoJack." But the quality acting makes it easier to feel connected with Elliot than with a cartoon horse.

Along with the above, "Mr Robot" brings more diversity to depictions of mental health, which is still a work in progress in many ways.

Inside Out: Our emotions are important and valid

Consider this a special mention of an incredible animated movie, which eloquently portrays the role of different emotions in our emotional health and intelligence. This is vital for young people to see and learn.

While not explicitly about depression, I can see the deep connection between this story and how unexpressed emotions can hurt youth (especially young men).

The takeaway

Depictions of mental health conditions aren't solely the responsibility of the writers, movie studios, and critics. I've often mindlessly watched shows only to realise (much) later how misrepresentative they were of issues like anxiety and depression.

So, be mindful of what you're watching, if you can. When you see harmful mental health stereotypes in the media, comment on them! Forums, comment threads, your blog... use these to help add to the conversation and spread awareness. Likewise, when you see "mental health done right" in a movie or show, share it and celebrate!

The more we put our time, attention, and money toward the stories that get it right, the easier it will be for us to understand, cope with, and support others struggling with mental health conditions like depression.

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The individual(s) who have written and created the content in and whose images appear in this article have been paid by Teva Pharmaceuticals for their contributions. This content represents the opinions of the contributor and does not necessarily reflect those of Teva Pharmaceuticals. Similarly, Teva Pharmaceuticals does not review, control, influence or endorse any content related to the contributor's websites or social media networks. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered medical advice or recommendations. Consult a qualified medical professional for diagnosis and before beginning or changing any treatment regimen. 

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Date of preparation: September 2023
D: COB-GB-NP-00308 (V1.0) / T: COB-GB-NP-00303 (V1.0) / M: COB-GB-NP-00298 (V1.0)