Has TV Finally Woken Up to Mental Health

Has TV Finally Woken Up to Mental Health

Anu Bains is a TV Professional with over fifteen years in the TV and Radio industry. A passionate holistic wellbeing coach dedicated to fostering mental health and resilience through a trauma-informed approach. With extensive training in holistic practices and a deep understanding of the psychological intricacies of trauma, she empowers individuals to reconnect with their inner selves and cultivate emotional and physical wellbeing. Anu combines mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavioral strategies, and integrative wellness practices to create personalised coaching experiences that promote healing and growth. Committed to creating a safe and supportive space, she believes in the transformative power of self-compassion and holistic care in navigating life’s challenges. Through her guidance, clients embark on a journey toward lasting wellbeing and self-discovery.


In recent years, the portrayal of mental health in television shows has undergone a significant transformation. No longer neglected or misrepresented mental health is now a prominent theme that is being addressed with the seriousness and complexity it deserves.

Here are some key factors contributing to this shift in the television landscape:

1. **Changing Cultural Attitudes**
Society’s understanding of mental health has evolved dramatically. As conversations about mental health become more normalized and the stigma surrounding it lessened, TV networks and creators have begun to reflect these changes in their programming. This cultural shift encourages open discussions about mental health issues, making it a more relevant topic for storytelling.

 2. **Influence of Real-Life Events**
High-profile events, including celebrity/contributor and crew disclosures about mental health struggles, have played a crucial role in bringing these issues to the forefront. As public figures share their experiences, it paves the way for more relatable and realistic portrayals of mental health on screen.

 3. **Increased Demand for Authenticity**
Viewers are increasingly seeking content that resonates with real-life experiences. They want stories that reflect the complexities of everyday life, including the challenges of mental health. Shows that authentically tackle these issues can build deeper connections with their audience, leading to higher ratings and fan engagement.

 4. **Impact of Social Media**
Social media platforms have sparked dialogues about mental health like never before. Fans engage with characters and storylines, often discussing their own experiences and feelings. This online dialogue encourages creators to depict mental health with sensitivity and accuracy, as viewers hold them accountable for the narratives they present.

5. **Diversity of Perspectives**
The entertainment industry is starting to prioritize diverse voices in writing rooms. Writers with personal experiences of mental health challenges contribute to more nuanced and representative storytelling, allowing a wider range of perspectives to be explored on-screen.

 6. **Educational Resources and Collaborations**
Many shows now consult mental health professionals during the writing process to ensure accurate and responsible portrayals. This collaboration not only helps to demystify mental health issues but also provides viewers with resources and support options.

7. **Emphasis on Character Development**
Mental health struggles can add depth to character arcs, enhancing narrative complexity. Characters dealing with mental health issues can evoke empathy, foster understanding, and show resilience, leading to richer storytelling.


Television has woken up to mental health for a variety of reasons, reflecting a broader societal shift towards understanding and accepting mental health issues. Shows that tackle these topics with honesty and compassion not only contribute to destigmatizing mental health but also resonate with audiences who are hungry for authentic representation. As we move forward, it’s crucial for content creators to continue this trend, ensuring that mental health remains a priority in storytelling. Both on and off screen. For both contributors and crew. 

The most important thing is that it is being recognised and talked about. There is still some resistance, only recently in a discussion it was referred to as “Hippieish” many other conversations have ensued with “it’s a bit woo woo”

Some holistic practices are backed by science!! Think about meditation for example. This essentially resets your breathing allowing you to ground. If you were having a panic attack the same if not similar techniques would be used. But it’s widely accepted because it comes from a DR. 

Resources 

The Film & TV Charity

https://filmtvcharity.org.uk/get-support/

 

TV Mindset

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/EYfeWBC7b9cTNkAU/?mibextid=K35XfP

 

Samaritans 

https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/talk-us-phone/

 

Mind

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

 

Back to blog

Leave a comment