Impact Of Movies On Mental Health

Mental health issues have existed throughout history but were misunderstood. In the past, they were often linked to ghosts, witches, or black magic. Treatments included exorcism, lobotomies, and torture, which often led to death. People believed that the mentally ill were sent from hell and returned there. This was a dark and disturbing time in human history.

Today in modern society we are finally able to identify a long bunch of lists of mental diseases ranging from slightly concerning to serious concern raising. People are becoming more accepting of mental health. This means they understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. People are starting to realise that it's okay to talk about feelings and struggles. They're learning that mental health problems are common and nothing to be ashamed of. More and more, society is offering support and resources for those who need help.

 This acceptance is making it easier for people to seek help when they're not feeling well mentally. It's like opening up a door for everyone to feel okay about taking care of their minds, just like they do for their bodies. Various factors have played an essential role in achieving this goal. Movies and advertisement films are also major factors that have helped people throughout the globe to accept the overall concept of mental health. 

Movies about mental health can teach us a lot and help us understand it better. When these movies are advertised and shown to society, they can make a big impact. People watch movies to be entertained, but they also learn from them. When movies talk about mental health, they can raise awareness and reduce stigma. For example, a movie might show a character struggling with depression. When people see this, they might understand better what depression is like. This can make them more compassionate towards others who are going through similar struggles. Even in my own household, I remember a childhood memory of the conversation we had about the movie “Taare Zameen Paar,” a movie that featured a young boy with dyslexia who struggles to fit in his normal school surroundings and later on transfers to another school, where, with the help of a kind teacher, he realises his passion for the arts can achieve greater lengths by winning an art competition held by his school, including all the students and teachers as participants. After watching this movie, my family and I were happy for the boy, who could finally be his true self in art. I was also curious about what made the boy struggle previously, so my parents, after reading through the movie details, helped me realise that the young boy was suffering through dyslexia, which made reading a difficult task for him in comparison to other kids.

The boy was forced to leave his family and old school after an argument with a neighbour's son and his struggles at school. His mother, the only one who ever understood him, eventually decided that sending him to a distant school was best. The pain of loneliness he endured during that time still haunts me. This movie also taught me that not everyone can be treated the same as others, and there might be someone out there who needs greater support and understanding. 

Mental health movies spark important conversations. Families may discuss what they saw, and friends might share their feelings about mental health. These discussions can break down barriers and help people feel less isolated. It’s crucial for everyone to know that talking about mental health is okay. Movies often portray characters seeking therapy or joining support groups, showing that help is available. This can inspire those struggling to reach out for help. In this way, mental health films can positively impact society by raising awareness, educating, and encouraging open dialogue and support.

Grade: X, Deerwalk Sifal School