Mental Health in Film & TV (a collaboration with My Mind on Film)

The Borak Minda Podcast

Mental health is still a taboo topic for many people, so addressing it in the media is important in destigmatising and normalising mental health issues. But how important is it that mental health issues are addressed responsibly, accurately & compassionately in the media that we consume? In this episode, my guests from My Mind on Film and I talk about popular films & TV series that have addressed mental health issues in both helpful and harmful ways. We discuss 13 Reasons Why, Split, Perks of Being A Wallflower, It's Kind of A Funny Story, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

My Mind on Film is Malaysia's first youth mental health short film festival organised by the Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing (a collaborative effort between HELP University and Malaysian Mental Health Association). Short film submissions are still open until 20th January 2021 for 16 to 25 year-olds. Stand a chance to win prizes such as Sony cameras, film industry placements, cash prizes, scholarships, and get your short film screened at MBO Cinema. The festival also hosts webinars and workshops on mental health and filmmaking. Check out their Instagram page @mymindonfilm.my to learn more.

Content warning: The following media we discuss include the mention of suicide, rape, violence, kidnapping and negative portrayals of mental illness. If any of this is distressing for you at this time, please consider waiting until you're ready or refrain from listening to this episode altogether.