Mental health is something that is often overlooked or deemed taboo. However, it’s important to talk about mental health and to raise awareness about the various conditions that fall under this category. If you’re looking for a way to learn more about mental health, check out these ten must-see documentaries. They’ll give you a better understanding of mental illness and how it impacts people’s lives.
1. The Horse Boy (2009)
The Horse Boy follows the story of a boy with autism who is helped by horses. The film documents the journey of the boy and his family to Mongolia in search of a traditional shaman who they believe can help him.
The Horse Boy is an intimate portrait of a family struggling to cope with a child who is different from other children. This film provides insight into the challenges and rewards of raising a child with autism. It is an inspiring and moving story that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved and cared for a child with special needs.
2. Out Of Mind, Out Of Sight (2014)
Out Of Mind, Out Of Sight explores mental illness and its impact on those affected. The documentary follows the stories of four Brockville Mental Health Centre residents living with mental illness, as well as their families and caregivers.
The four individuals in the film battle negative connotations associated with mental illness to take back power over their lives. Through these personal stories, the film sheds light on the hidden world of mental illness. It also provides insight into the challenges those living with
this condition face.
3. OC87: The Obsessive Compulsive, Major Depression, Bipolar, Asperger’s Movie (2010)
OC87: The Obsessive Compulsive, Major Depression, Bipolar, Asperger’s Movie is a documentary about mental health that covers various topics related to mental illness. The film follows the life of its director, Bud Clayman, who has been diagnosed with OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and Asperger’s syndrome.
The documentary explains what it is like to live with each of these conditions and how they can affect every aspect of a person’s life. It also covers the various treatments available for each condition and their effectiveness.
4. The Wounds We Cannot See (2017)
In The Wounds We Cannot See, former US Navy Airman Nancy Ross of Hingham, Massachusetts, tells her story of struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after serving in the Gulf War. Ross was exposed to chemical warfare agents while working on the flight line in Saudi Arabia during the war. She began having nightmares and flashbacks and was eventually diagnosed with PTSD.
Ross describes her experience of being “stuck” in the war and how she was finally able to begin healing through art therapy and journaling. She also discusses the importance of seeking help from a professional if you are struggling with PTSD.
5. Of Two Minds (2013)
Of Two Minds observes the stories of people living with bipolar disorder. It explores the different symptoms and treatments associated with the condition, as well as the impact it has on patients’ lives. The film also includes interviews with experts who provide insight into the latest research on bipolar disorder.
Of Two Minds is an informative and moving portrayal of what it is like to live with bipolar disorder. It offers hope and understanding to those affected by the condition and provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this mental illness.
6. Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind (2018)
Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind explores the life and career of Robin Williams, who died by suicide in 2014. The film looks at his early days as a stand-up comedian, his breakout role on the sitcom Mork & Mindy, and his successes in films like Good Morning, Vietnam, and Dead Poets Society. The movie also delves into Williams’ personal life, including his battles with addiction and depression.
The film features interviews with some of Williams’ closest friends and colleagues, including Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg, and Steve Martin. Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind is a moving tribute to a comedic legend.
7. Neurons To Nirvana: Understanding Psychedelic Medicines (2013)
Neurons To Nirvana: Understanding Psychedelic Medicines investigates the potential benefits of psychedelic drugs for mental health. It includes interviews with scientists, medical professionals, and people who have used these drugs to treat conditions like depression and anxiety. The film makes a strong case for the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. It provides valuable information for anyone considering using these substances.
Neurons To Nirvana is an important film for anyone interested in the potential of psychedelic drugs to treat mental illness. It delivers valuable information about the risks and benefits of these substances. Besides, this documentary offers a moving glimpse into the lives of those who have benefited from their use—highly recommended.
8. Letters From Generation Rx (2017)
Letters From Generation Rx investigates the impact of prescription antidepressants on mental health. It features interviews with patients, families, and experts on the subject. In addition, the documentary highlights the stories of people who have been affected by antidepressants and explores the possible long-term effects of taking these medications.
The film offers a balanced view of the pros and cons of taking antidepressants. It does not demonize the medications or those who take them but instead provides a nuanced view of the complex issue.
9. Depression: Out Of The Shadows (2008)
Depression: Out Of The Shadows sheds light on depression, a topic that is often taboo. It features interviews with people who have suffered from depression and experts in the field. The film aims to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and show that it is a real and serious problem.
Depression: Out Of The Shadows does a good job of explaining what depression is and how it can affect people. It also covers some of the treatments available. However, it does not detail the causes of depression or how to prevent it.
Overall, this is a well-made documentary that provides valuable information on a topic that is often misunderstood. It is worth watching if you or someone you know is struggling with depression.
10. Bipolarized (2013)
This film explores bipolar disorder and its impact on those affected by it. It follows the stories of several people with bipolar disorder as they share their experiences with the condition. The film also interviews experts on bipolar disorder, who offer insights into the causes and treatments of the condition.
Bipolarized is an enlightening documentary that provides a unique look at bipolar disorder. The film is moving and informative, and it will leave viewers with a greater understanding of the condition.
Bottom Line
The documentaries on mental health that we’ve highlighted are eye-opening, informative, and sometimes heartbreaking. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder, watching these films may help you better understand what you or your loved one is going through. We hope they can also be the beginning of more open conversations about mental health and its impact on our lives. What documentary about mental health did you find most interesting?
