TV Shows with the Best Mental Health Representation From A Therapists’ Perspective
Stories shape how we perceive and understand ourselves, others and the world. The stories portrayed by the media through TV shows and movies are vital in validating those with mental illnesses while educating others who may not experience these challenges. It is also important for information to be represented carefully to avoid adding to the mental health stigma that already presently exists. Particularly, TV shows are powerful tools for education and connection.
Here are some of the most powerful mental health representations shown on TV:
Intervention
Intervention is a docuseries, following individuals battling addiction that offers a vulnerable perspective from both the individual and the loved ones impacted by this disease. Though this series is intense, it highlights the physical and emotional toll that addiction can have while highlighting the power of support and change.
Euphoria
Euphoria highlights the life of Rue, a teenage girl battling addiction, trauma and the chaos of being in high school. This series can be difficult to watch, and is a powerful insight into how these factors can impact a developing adolescent.
Degrassi: The Next Generation
Originally a Canadian TV show prior to becoming popular on TeenNick, Degrassi: The Next Generation was a pioneer in teen mental health representation, navigating challenging topics such as depression, suicide, trauma and eating disorders. This show follows storylines that offer teachable moments for adolescents and adults alike.
Atypical
This series focuses on the life of Sam, a teenage boy who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder who is seen navigating challenges with relationships, identity and growth as he learns to understand himself more. This show balances both humor and emotions, while providing insight on neuro-divergency.
The Fosters
This series centers around the topics of chosen family, emotional resilience and systematic challenges; highlighting themes of trauma, LGBTQIA+ representation and identity of both the moms of the family and the teens in the family. It models how having supportive family members as well as love and belonging can heal in numerous ways.
13 Reasons Why
Though this show is controversial for a variety of reasons, it also is a conversation-starter that explores the ripple effects of suicide, grief and loss and what can occur when systems may fail individuals. Though the first season focuses around the death of Hannah, a teen girl who dies by suicide, the later seasons provides insight into how her death continues to impact those around her throughout their high school careers.
Final Thoughts
When individuals see their experiences reflected on the screen with care and intention, it can offer a sense of validation and understanding. These shows offer important themes to discuss while normalizing the desire to seek help and challenging the stigma of mental health. Not only do these shows provide a level of entertainment - they also provide opportunities for deeper conversations about these topics.
Samantha Burns, MA, LPC
Samantha is the administrative assistant for Flourish Counseling & Wellness. Samantha is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and enjoys working with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing challenges with trauma, depression and anxiety.