The Best TV Shows That Address Mental Health

Key Takeaways

• TV shows can provoke conversations and awareness around mental health issues, such as Shameless & The Crowded Room.
• 1 in 4 people worldwide struggle with mental illness; anxiety, depression, and LGBTQ+ show the highest rates in the US.
• 13 Reasons Why effectively depicts mental health issues related to bullying, abuse, and suicide.

As someone who has battled my own demons and sought solace in the therapeutic realm, I find myself deeply drawn to shows that delve into the complexities of mental health and healing. Among the three series you’ve presented, “In Treatment” resonates most profoundly with me. The raw, unfiltered portrayal of therapy sessions offers a refreshingly authentic glimpse into the human psyche, something I find incredibly valuable in my ongoing journey towards understanding myself better.

Shows on television dealing with mental health issues are crucial for sparking discussions, increasing understanding, and fostering unity by promoting empathy and tolerance. It’s been estimated that one out of every four individuals globally experiences some form of mental illness. Among U.S. adults, the demographic group that faces the most challenges is the LGBTQ+ community, as reported by the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Each year, anxiety disorders and depression are found to be the most common conditions encountered.

One way to rephrase this in simpler, more conversational language could be: Certain TV series tackle mental health topics, focusing on a troubled family in Chicago. They delve into dissociative identity disorder, bullying, and abuse’s aftermath, increasing awareness and providing education for viewers. Although these shows can be hard to watch at times, they spark crucial conversations about prevalent and serious mental health matters.

9. Shameless

Addresses Bipolar Disease, Addiction, And Neglect

• Genre: Comedy, Drama
• Release date: January 9, 2011
• Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix
• IMDb rating: 8.5/10

Without a doubt, “Shameless” should be the top TV show for addressing mental health concerns. This series centers around a Chicago family dealing with alcoholism, burnout, depression, addiction, bipolar disorder, and body image struggles. The show masterfully portrays these challenges in a genuine manner, all thanks to its exceptional cast, including Jeremy Allen White, Emmy Rossum, and William H. Macy.

This Chicago family is deeply troubled, with a self-centered patriarch, a son exhibiting erratic behavior as a result of his sexual identity struggles, and an eldest sibling who tirelessly works to maintain family unity following years of emotional abandonment by their problematic parents.

8. The Crowded Room

Provokes Conversations About Trauma And Dissociative Identities

• Genre: Drama, Psychological Thriller
• Release date: June 9, 2023
• Streaming: Apple TV
• IMDb rating: 7.7/10

“The Chaotic Courtroom

The series similarly portrays the impact that mental disorders like psychosis have on an individual’s identity and personal connections. Moreover, The Crowded Room skillfully depicts societal perceptions towards mental health concerns.

7. 13 Reasons Why

Covers Mental Health Issues Stemming From Bullying And Abuse

• Genre: Teen Drama, Mystery, Psychological Thriller
• Release date: March 31, 2017
• Streaming: Netflix
• IMDb rating: 7.5/10

13 Reasons Why is a TV show that sensitively explores mental health topics such as depression, anxiety, and suicide. These issues are often linked to experiences like bullying, trauma, and sexual assault. The series is quite graphic; it begins with the character Hannah Baker (portrayed by Katherine Langford), who has chosen to take her own life. She leaves behind 13 recorded messages, each aimed at someone she believes has wronged her and contributed to her decision to end her existence.

In the meantime, Clay Jensen (portrayed by Dylan Minnette), a close friend of Hanna’s, grapples with feelings of guilt, worry, and the yearning for justice. This underscores the significance of empathy towards others and the potential outcomes of unresolved traumas.

6. The Bear

Acknowledges Mental Health Issues Like Anxiety And Grief

• Genre: Comedy-drama, Psychological Drama
• Release date: June 23, 2022
• Streaming: Disney +
• IMDb rating: 8.6/10

In this TV show, “The Bear” excels in its portrayal of intense workplace pressures and the consequences of unresolved pain and limited communication. The character Carmy, played by Jeremy Allen White, inherits a local eatery following his brother’s demise. Carmy is grappling with guilt over not being there for his brother during difficult times while simultaneously managing the tension and stress within the poisonous restaurant work environment.

As a gamer diving into this show, it’s not just about culinary arts. It serves as an unfiltered view into how people handle, or sometimes evade, their deep-seated traumas, stresses, and emotional struggles. It’s a compelling watch that has garnered an impressive 103 awards and over 150 nominations. Every cast member has been recognized for their exceptional acting skills, with many of them receiving the Best Actor accolade or being nominated for it.

5. Shrinking

The Importance Of Therapy For Healing From Grief

• Genre: Comedy, Drama
• Release date: January 27, 2023
• Streaming: Apple TV
• IMDb rating: 8.0/10

The narrative underscores the significance of therapeutic intervention during the journey of mourning the loss of a loved one. It revolves around Jimmy, portrayed by Jason Segel, a therapist himself, grappling with mental turmoil following his wife’s demise. This personal struggle causes him to deviate from conventional therapy methods and take chances, leading to an intriguing twist in the storyline.

The series depicts raw emotions such as sorrow, melancholy, and an authentic depiction of recovery. It underscores that providing aid to others becomes challenging if one’s mental state isn’t stable. As we’ve come to expect from actor Jason Segel, the show masterfully blends humor with drama, and Jimmy is a delightful and relatable character to follow.

4. BoJack Horseman

Portraits Of Self-Destructive Behavior And Depression

• Genre: Adult Animation, Dark Comedy, Psychological Drama
• Release date: August 22, 2014
• Streaming: Netflix
• IMDb rating: 8.8/10

As a devoted fan, I’d say that “BoJack Horseman” stands out as an adult animation series that fearlessly tackles mental health issues using a blend of dark humor and poignant drama. In this captivating narrative, the central character, BoJack (voiced by Will Arnett), is a once-famous actor grappling with depression, addiction to alcohol, and self-destructive tendencies as he strives for relevance once more in his life.

The show stands out due to the authentic portrayal of each character’s struggles with mental issues. Among them are Diane, voiced by Allison Brie, who is on a quest for life meaning, and Princess Carolyn, voiced by Amy Sedaris, who grapples with both anxiety and workaholism.

3. Euphoria

Substance Abuse And Identity Issues In Teens

• Genre: Teen Drama, Psychological Drama
• Release date: June 16, 2019
• Streaming: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
• IMDb rating: 8.3/10

A TV drama series titled Euphoria debuted in June 2019, with its story revolving around the main character, Rue (portrayed by Zendaya). Rue struggles with a powerful drug addiction as she grapples with mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety triggered by her father’s passing. Zendaya’s exceptional acting earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

Euphoria excels at portraying the complexity of life’s struggles when unaddressed traumas linger, lacking professional intervention, and demonstrates how societal expectations and digital platforms like social media can impact one’s mental wellbeing.

2. Baby Reindeer

Addresses Isolation, Trauma, And Discontentment

• Genre: Dark Comedy, Biography, Drama
• Release date: April 11, 2024
• Streaming: Netflix
• IMDb rating: 7.7/10

In “Baby Reindeer,” it’s Richard Gadd who penned the script and took on the lead role. His life takes an unexpected turn when he extends kindness to a troubled woman at his workplace, a bar. However, this act of goodwill backfires as she begins to stalk and torment him relentlessly. The series unfolds to show how unchecked feelings such as paranoia, fear, and guilt can significantly impact an individual’s daily life if not addressed properly.

The series draws inspiration from real-life events and offers an authentic portrayal of these challenges, sparking discussions on mental wellness. For those who may have experienced similar situations, the program could feel intensely relatable or emotionally stirring.

1. In Treatment

A Raw Look Into Therapy Sessions

• Genre: Drama
• Release date: January 28, 2008
• Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
• IMDb rating: 8.3/10

In the TV series “In Treatment,” audiences are granted an intimate look into the realm of psychotherapy. This captivating show presents not only the trials faced by patients but also sheds light on a therapist’s perspective. What sets this show apart is that many episodes take place within therapy sessions, offering a genuine and unfiltered glimpse into the therapeutic process. The diverse range of topics addressed in these sessions includes anxiety, marital disputes, parental conflicts, and couples therapy.

The depicted cases are understandable, and they underscore the fact that recovery requires time and self-examination is crucial. “In Treatment” delves entirely into therapy, making it essential viewing for those seeking shows centered around mental health concerns, but more importantly, focused on the journey of healing.

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2024-12-01 00:35