Which Films Have the Most Realistic On-Screen Depiction of Teen Depression?

Mental illness has become an increasingly prevalent part of on-screen storytelling. In particular, teen depression is often either a central narrative or character trait in media aimed at young adults. This is generally a positive thing, though it is certainly most powerful when the depictions are accurate.   

Why is a sense of reality important? Firstly, it can give teenagers and parents alike reference points for recognition and discussions surrounding the condition. When teens are depicted accurately and with a sense of normality, it can also prevent young audiences from feeling othered by the media they’re consuming. 

So, what are the most realistic on-screen depictions of teen depression? We’re going to explore a handful of them.

What Teen Depression Looks Like

One of the problems with depictions of teen depression on screen is the tendency to use stereotypes. Too often, these are based on extremes. For instance, The Virgin Suicides (1999) shows depression resulting in various characters ending their lives in gruesome and dramatic ways. One character impales herself on a fence while others form a suicide pact. It’s essential to recognize that suicide must be part of discussions around teen depression. Yet, viewing such outcomes being used purely for dramatic effect is certainly not always helpful.

At their best, realistic portrayals of depression in movies and TV shows can help teens understand what it looks like on a day-to-day basis. It may also be empowering to know that it is not an unusual part of life. This is a key step toward addressing it.  

I Am Not Okay With This (2020) – source: Netflix

Perhaps surprisingly, one realistic example of what teen depression looks like is the Netflix series I Am Not Okay With This (2020). On the surface, it’s a coming-of-age drama with heavy sci-fi superpower elements. But, as with so many such fantasies, the struggles of the protagonist, Syd, provide audiences with great allegories. 

Syd’s emotionally charged telekinesis is connected to her feelings surrounding her father’s suicide. Her difficulty communicating about her experiences and becoming increasingly withdrawn and isolated are very similar to symptoms of depression. Indeed, the extreme effects of her powers as a result of strong emotions can be an analog for the feelings many teens with depression feel building up and becoming overwhelming without an outlet.

In some ways, The Breakfast Club (1985) is also an accurate depiction of what depression looks like. On the surface, Ally Sheedy’s portrayal of Allison seems the obvious and stereotypical candidate for a character with teen depression. However, the other characters are also representative of depression in young people’s lives. 

Brian (Anthony Michael Hall) reveals he’s contemplated suicide due to academic pressure. John (Judd Nelson) experiences abuse that leads to a bleak view of society and his own future. While there is no deep exploration of each character’s depression, it does demonstrate that it can affect teens in a range of ways, no matter their backgrounds or individual lifestyles.

The Challenges of Relationships

Relationships are a key part of navigating teen depression. Firstly, strong connections help teens develop a solid support network. They also minimize the potential sense of isolation that can trigger symptoms. That said, various aspects of maintaining relationships can be quite challenging for teens living with depression. How this is portrayed on screen can help parents and caregivers have conversations with teens on the subject. It may also inspire solutions. 

One particularly challenging experience is living with roommates. Successful cohabitation — whether with a sibling, a stranger, or a friend — requires mutual adherence to ground rules and respect for one another’s privacy. Nevertheless, this is a nuanced challenge that can push the limits of any relationship. For teens living with depression, it’s important to see examples of the hurdles they may recognize from their own experiences and how others navigate them to forge strong relationships.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010) – source: Focus Features

It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010) is an underappreciated yet solid example of this. While the plot focuses on the roommate relationships within a psychiatric ward, its ideas are no less relevant outside of that setting. It shows teens dealing with the difficulties of romantic relationships and friendships while also juggling symptoms of mental illness. The protagonist, Craig, struggles yet succeeds in developing mutual bonds of friendship and trust. Importantly, the movie highlights the importance of how the characters’ recognition of one another’s mental health challenges helps them to build and maintain their connections.

Recognizing Mental Health Needs

Recognizing your mental health needs is crucial to maintaining wellness. Being able to acknowledge the reality of living with depression can lead you to adopt self-care routines that make a genuine difference. Certainly, each person’s needs and perspectives are unique. However, on-screen depictions of young people recognizing their conditions and taking steps to heal can be powerful tools.

The series Euphoria (2019) is a pretty raw depiction of various facets of mental health. Its episode “The Trials and Tribulations of Trying to Pee While Depressed” is a great exploration of how important it is to recognize the challenges of mental illness and find the right solutions. Its central character, Rue, spends the episode experiencing symptoms of depression while also recognizing that her previous drug-related “solutions” were not helpful. While Rue ultimately relapses into drug use, it is nonetheless a realistic portrayal of how difficult the road can be.  

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012), on the other hand, is perhaps both a realistic and ultimately more optimistic way to show the importance of acknowledgment and seeking help. While the protagonist, Charlie, has experienced depression in some form since childhood, it really comes to a head in his teen years. 

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012) – source: Summit Entertainment

One of the most important aspects is that Charlie is relatively open with his friends about his mental health. There are also demonstrations of finding small periods of joy, such as blasting David Bowie songs from a car while driving through a tunnel. Indeed, Charlie reaching out for help at his lowest ebb leads to painful self-discovery that opens up his path to healing.

Conclusion:

When there’s a focus on realism, on-screen depictions of teen depression can be powerful tools. The Breakfast Club, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and It’s Kind of a Funny Story are among those recognized as accurately showing various aspects of mental wellness in young people. 

There will, of course, be more media produced that show teens navigating depression. Discussing how realistic these are with teens — whether you’re a parent, teacher, family member, or friend — will always be useful. It helps to open up discussions about what resonates with them and encourages a greater understanding of their own experiences.