Romanticizing of mental illnesses in the media

Mental health in mass media has been a hot topic of debate for a very long time. According to numerous studies, both entertainment and news media present overwhelming, dramatic, and distorted images of mental illness that emphasize dangerousness, violent attitude, and unpredictability of the patients. They also represent unfavorable reactions to people suffering from mental illness including fear, denial, insult, and mockery. The negative portrayal of mental health issues has severe consequences. 

In movies, mental illnesses are intensified and glorified as something they are not. In 2019, the movie “Joker” received negative feedback for its representation of derangement and its association of mental illness with force and murder and it further strengthens the popular stereotypes of mental health conditions leading to violence.

In addition to cinema, TV shows also stigmatize and glorify mental health issues like stress and anxiety. These cases are often misrepresented, which is dangerous considering so many of these shows are intended for younger and more impressionable viewers.

An example of a show romanticizing mental illness is the highly controversial Netflix original “13 Reasons Why”. This show is about a young girl who recorded cassette tapes before committing suicide and blamed others as a reason why she took her life. This show has dramatized the portrayal of suicide and depression, focusing on blaming others instead of sensitizing the audience about ways to overcome these thoughts. By turning this serious situation into entertainment, the show also gives the impression that suicide is the only way to deal with pain. The show’s rage also resulted in a rise in suicide rates among youngsters after its release. “You” is another awful, sociopathic Netflix series that people are addicted to. This thriller includes romanticizing terrible crimes towards women such as stalking, violence, and even killing.

Mental illness is something that a lot of people, including a lot of young people, have to deal with daily. The portrayal of these events has a huge impact on people’s minds. If not done right, it will be more difficult for patients to reach out for help. As mass media has an enormous reach in society, it should inform and sensitize people on different types of mental illnesses and their cause-effects. Education and awareness are crucial to breaking the harmful stereotype and stigmas associated with mental health issues.