by Cicely Hunscher, on May 1, 2023 8:06:31 AM
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and what better way to bring awareness to this issue than through cinema? That’s why we’ve put together a Mental Health Awareness Month Watchlist that features films that explore a range of mental health themes and experiences. From depictions of anxiety and depression to stories of recovery and resilience. These films offer an opportunity to spark conversations and deepen our understanding of mental health issues. So sit back, grab a snack, and join us in honoring Mental Health Awareness Month by giving these movies a watch!
Bobby (21m 33s) - Drama
Bobby is about a boy named Bobby who is a high-functioning autistic individual whose struggles are compounded by societal pressures. His parents struggle with coming to terms with their child’s situation given the stigma attached to such matters in the Indian American community.
The Age of Anxiety (51m 5s) - Social/Documentary/Educational
According to the World Health Organization, anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental illnesses worldwide. Is this disease a disease of modernity? Or is our highly competitive and material culture itself undermining our nerves? The Age of Anxiety examines what anxiety is, and how and why it is being redefined by medical and pharmaceutical industries.
Fears (2m 8s) - Animation/health
Fears are visible as a constant companion to their owners. The creatures can make people’s lives more difficult, but they can also be very useful. This film explores the complicated relationship we all have with fear.
Lift Like A Girl (7m 35s) - Documentary
Lift Like A Girl is about a 40-year-old mom named Jenny. Jenny has struggled with her weight and overall body confidence since she gave birth to her son. She eventually came across CrossFit which changed her life, and the way she feels and sees her body. Fast forward to today, Jenny is an olympic weightlifting coach, and works with young women to help them improve their overall health, but also their confidence and ideas of beauty.
Daffodil (18m 11s) - Drama/Social/Health
Daffodil is about a trip through the psyche of an apathetic workaholic who is in shock as her estranged mother recently committed suicide.
A Reflection of Change (37m 30s) - Social/Documentary/Educational
A Reflection of Change explores the mental health impacts of Covid-19 and isolation from social distancing compounded by the effects of generational trauma, white supremacist violence and BIPOC youth. This film is a catalyst for the important conversations we need to be having around how we, as a society, can better understand and support the mental health needs of BIPOC youth during these unprecedented times and beyond.
We hope you enjoy these amazing films. To check out more films for MHAM check out our Wellness Channel! See you next month!
