The Dangerous Glamour of Mental Illness and Alcoholism in Media

Isla Davis

Updated Friday, September 13, 2024 at 11:02 AM CDT

The Dangerous Glamour of Mental Illness and Alcoholism in Media

Romanticizing Mental Illness in Media

Depression and other mental illnesses are often romanticized in media, particularly when it comes to female characters. This trend can be seen in popular shows like "Queen's Gambit," where the protagonist's depression is glamorously depicted with matching lingerie and perfect hair. This portrayal starkly contrasts with the real-life experience of depression, which often involves feeling and looking disheveled. The romanticization of mental illness can create misleading perceptions, making it seem less severe than it truly is.

In reality, depressive episodes frequently result in a lack of self-care, leading individuals to feel and appear unkempt. This discrepancy between media portrayal and real-life experience can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of empathy for those suffering from mental illnesses. Moreover, it can create unrealistic standards for how people think they should look or act when they are struggling, further exacerbating their condition.

The Allure of Alcoholism in Movies

Alcoholism is another condition frequently glamorized in media, especially in genres like westerns, spy films, and period pieces. Protagonists in these films often exhibit an unrealistic tolerance for alcohol, avoiding the negative physical effects such as vomiting or severe hangovers. This portrayal can be dangerously misleading, as it fails to address the serious health and social consequences of excessive drinking.

The reality of being an alcoholic is far from glamorous. It involves serious health issues, such as liver damage and mental health problems, as well as negative impacts on relationships and personal well-being. The glamorization of alcohol consumption in movies can contribute to unhealthy drinking habits in real life, as viewers may be influenced by the idealized image of alcohol use.

The Consequences of Media Misrepresentation

The romanticization of mental illnesses and alcoholism in media can have far-reaching consequences. Characters in films often have "plot armor" that shields them from the real-life repercussions of excessive drinking or untreated mental illness. This can trivialize the serious and debilitating nature of these conditions, leading to a lack of understanding and empathy.

Media representations can sometimes glorify the struggle associated with mental illness, rather than accurately depicting the pain and difficulty. This can create a false narrative that struggling with mental health issues is somehow noble or desirable, rather than a serious condition that requires professional treatment and support. Similarly, the romanticized image of alcohol consumption can overshadow the reality of addiction and its consequences, perpetuating dangerous myths about drinking.

The Need for Accurate Depictions

It is crucial for media to provide accurate depictions of mental illness and alcoholism to foster a better understanding of these conditions. The negative physical and emotional toll of alcoholism, for example, is often ignored in favor of a more appealing narrative. By showing the long-term effects of alcoholism, such as liver damage and mental health issues, media can help to dispel the myths and promote healthier attitudes towards drinking.

Similarly, more realistic portrayals of mental illness can help to demystify these conditions and promote empathy and support for those who suffer from them. By highlighting the importance of professional treatment and support, media can play a crucial role in changing perceptions and encouraging a more compassionate approach to mental health.

The glamorization of mental illness and alcoholism in media can create misleading perceptions and contribute to unhealthy behaviors. By providing more accurate and empathetic portrayals, media can help to foster a better understanding of these conditions and promote healthier attitudes and behaviors.

Noticed an error or an aspect of this article that requires correction? Please provide the article link and reach out to us. We appreciate your feedback and will address the issue promptly.

Check out our latest stories