Unmasking Depression: TV Shows that Get it Right

In today’s digital age, media plays a pivotal role in shaping public perceptions and attitudes towards mental health. From movies and television shows to news articles and social media platforms, the portrayal of mental health issues can significantly influence how these conditions are understood and addressed by society.

One of the most commonly depicted mental health conditions in the media is depression. As a pervasive and often debilitating illness, depression affects millions of people worldwide, manifesting in various forms and degrees of severity. It can impact every aspect of a person’s life, from their emotional and physical well-being to their relationships and daily functioning. Despite its prevalence, depression is frequently misunderstood and stigmatized.

When media accurately and sensitively depicts the experiences of those with depression, these portrayals can help destigmatize the illness, encourage individuals to seek help, and promote a more supportive environment for those struggling with their mental health. By showcasing real-life challenges and the resilience of individuals dealing with depression, media can contribute to a broader societal shift towards acceptance and support for mental health issues.

This article aims to highlight two different representations of depression in media, discussing the impact these portrayals can have on public awareness and empathy. By examining specific examples, we hope to shed light on the complexities of depression and provide positive examples, which may continue to encourage more accurate and compassionate depictions. 

Bojack Horseman

First, we will be delving into the Netflix series, Bojack Horseman. This show offers a nuanced and realistic portrayal of depression. This can be evidently seen through the titular character, Bojack Horseman. Set in a world where humans and anthropomorphic animals live side by side, Bojack is a middle aged horse man who lives in Los Angeles and is a washed-up actor, who used to star in a famous sitcom called Horsin’ Around. Dissatisfied with his lack of success as an actor and failed attempts to establish himself in the acting industry, we see Bojack struggle with his feelings of depression and how it affects various aspects of his life. In multiple episodes we get a glimpse of Bojack’s experiences with depression. In the episode titled Stupid Piece of Shit, we see Bojack’s overwhelming sense of worthlessness, reflecting his feelings of inadequacy, low-self esteem and self-doubt. From the moment he wakes up, he is plagued by thoughts of resentment and self-loathing, starting with calling himself a “stupid piece of shit”. 

This is an honest portrayal of negative self-talk that perpetuates feelings of worthlessness and guilt that are associated with depression. It also sheds light on the complexities of depression and illustrates the mental battle of an individual who is suffering from major depressive disorder. In other episodes such as; That’s Too Much, Man and Escape from L.A., we see how his self-loathing manifests into self-destructive behavior as Bojack ruins the significant relationships within his life. His inability to value himself and his denial of being deserving of love causes him to push the people he loves away. The show Bojack Horseman does not depict one’s path to alleviating issues like depression as something that is clear-cut. Instead, it shows how healing is quite complicated and can be a long and challenging journey. At the end of the show, Bojack is not healed. He has ruined most of his significant relationships and has damaged his image; however, he is on the path to reformation, which is something that many people can relate to. 

Beef

Next, we will be analyzing the Netflix show, Beef. This series does a great job of depicting depression through complex characters and an interesting narrative. The limited series revolves around Danny and Amy, two seemingly different individuals, who have a chance encounter within a parking lot, escalating into an episode of road rage that consumes their thoughts and actions. What stands out to us as viewers is that these characters are multifaceted and deeply flawed, much like real people, making them more relatable and easy to empathize with. Their struggles with depression are shown as part of their daily lives, not just isolated incidents. In the very first episode, we see Danny’s struggle with suicidal ideation, illustrated through his constant purchasing and returning of a small grill, which he contemplates using to end his life. The cashier reprimands him for buying and returning this grill almost daily, illustrating to us as viewers that Danny’s suicidal thoughts constantly haunt him. Episode 5, also depicts Danny’s lethargy. He has a hard time getting out of bed and seems disconnected from his surroundings, which shows the physical and emotional toll of his depression. The episode’s title, Morning Routine, makes this more apparent as it suggests that Danny is like this every morning. 

Amy’s depression is shown quite differently than that of Danny’s, as her feelings are mostly internalized. In the second episode, we see that she experiences deep dissatisfaction with her life and begins to see her career as a chore. Like many people with depression, Amy has lost pleasure in the things that used to bring her joy, such as her job and spending time with her family. In the seventh episode, we see her disconnection with her coworkers through visual cues, such as her being out of focus while the rest of the office is bustling; this reflects her sense of detachment and isolation from others. What is most interesting about this show’s depiction of depression is how it depicts two very different experiences with the illness and the eventual intertwining of these individuals, suggesting that while they may be very different, they are both experiencing the same struggle. 

Conclusion

Media representations of depression, such as those seen in “Bojack Horseman” and “Beef,” play a crucial role in shaping public understanding and attitudes towards mental health. These portrayals offer valuable insights into the complex and multifaceted nature of depression, emphasizing both the internal struggles and external manifestations of the illness. By providing honest and nuanced depictions, the media can help destigmatize depression, foster empathy, and encourage those affected to seek help. Furthermore, these narratives highlight the importance of compassion and support, not only for individuals battling depression but also for society as a whole. 

If you are struggling with depression, contact our office to help you schedule an appointment with one of our therapists.