During difficult times, certain movies and TV shows can be comforting. They mirror our struggles, helping us process our feelings and reminding us we’re not alone in what we’re going through.
The early teenage years can be tough, with mental health struggles and personal problems becoming more apparent. Many pieces of film reflect these real life challenges, offering comfort by showing that the audience is not alone. They also represent coping mechanisms that people often adopt in real life.
“I related to the movie ‘Waves.’ I was in a five-year toxic relationship starting at a very young age. I was surrounded by a lot of toxicity,” junior Kristel Cruz said. “The movie featured a main character’s death, which I can’t relate to directly, but I did experience a form of ego death. I’ve overcome that and learned how to love and find myself. Relating to the movie made it easier for me to open up about my situation.”
When viewers see a character in a movie struggling with a situation similar to what they’re dealing with, it can be reassuring. It helps them realize that they’re not the only one facing such a challenge and can help them feel more comfortable discussing their own struggles. This shared experience can make it easier to open up and connect with others, knowing that your feelings are valid and understood.
According to Psych Central, cinema and video are sometimes used as psychotherapy to expose you to a character going through the same situation and feelings as you.
“I found that I relate to certain parts of ‘Perks of Being a Wallflower,’” sophomore Julian Llanio said. “It helped me understand that not making friends isn’t necessarily a struggle, and I just have to truly be myself.”
Movies bring people to recognize situations they didn’t even realize they were experiencing. When teenagers see a character dealing with something that they are also going through, it can offer new perspectives and coping strategies that they can apply to their own life.
According to Yalda Uhls, adjunct assistant professor of psychology from University of California, research found that when teens watch TV shows and movies that portray mental health issues, they actually talk about it with their peers, parents and partners which helps them learn more about mental health.
“I found my situation similar to Meredith from ‘Brave,’” senior Chanell Escobar said. “Meredith did what she knew was best for herself. I [also] listened more to my instincts and knew what was best for myself. Now, “Brave” is my comfort movie I can watch whenever I feel weak.”
Growing up with an admirable character on a TV screen can be an effective way to shape someone into the person they want to become.
Movies and TV shows often mirror personal struggles, making people, specifically adolescents, feel understood and less alone. By connecting with characters who face similar challenges, the audience can pick up helpful ideas and advice that make it easier to tackle our own problems with confidence.