Are We Romanticizing Depression in Media?
We see it everywhere—movies, TV shows, music, even Instagram. Depression has become a topic we’re finally talking about, which is a good thing. But sometimes, the way it’s shown in media makes me pause. Is it helping people understand what depression is really like, or is it making it look… almost desirable?
This is tricky because some stories about depression are powerful and honest, but others seem to romanticize it, like it’s some kind of tragic beauty. Let’s unpack that a bit.
When Media Gets It Right
There are some amazing shows and movies out there that really get it. For example, BoJack Horseman dives deep into what depression can feel like. It’s messy, complicated, and not tied up in a neat bow. The show doesn’t shy away from how depression affects relationships or everyday life. It’s raw, but it’s also thoughtful.
Movies like The Perks of Being a Wallflower are another example. They don’t just show the pain; they also show the healing process. Watching characters work through their struggles can be a reminder that help is out there, and you’re not alone.
When It Crosses the Line
Then there’s the other side of it. Some stories start to make depression look almost… poetic. You know what I mean: the tortured artist who’s brilliant because they’re sad, or the lonely character whose pain makes them mysterious and deep.
And let’s be real—this happens a lot in music and books too. Lyrics or stories that make sadness sound beautiful can sometimes make people, especially teens or young adults, think that being depressed makes them special or more interesting. Depression doesn’t need a filter or a soundtrack. It’s hard enough without being wrapped up in that kind of imagery.
What About Social Media?
Social media is a whole other beast. On one hand, it’s been great for normalizing conversations about mental health. People share their stories, make relatable content, and even laugh about the struggles, which can make things feel less isolating.
But there’s also that side of social media where sadness gets turned into an aesthetic. Perfectly edited pictures of tearful faces or captions romanticizing loneliness can send the wrong message. It’s one thing to express feelings; it’s another to make depression look like something to aspire to.
Why It Matters
This kind of romanticization can actually hurt people. Here’s why:
It can make some people feel like their experience isn’t “valid” if it doesn’t look like what they’ve seen in media.
It can discourage people from getting help because they feel like their depression is part of their identity, or something they’ll lose if they get better.
It can mislead younger or more vulnerable people into thinking that depression is just a phase or a personality trait, rather than a serious mental health condition.
What Needs to Change
We need stories that are honest about depression, not ones that glamorize it. Show the tough parts, but also show the real ways people cope—therapy, medication, support systems. Let’s normalize reaching out for help instead of framing depression as something that just makes you “deep.”
Creators, whether they’re writing a movie script or posting online, have a responsibility here. Being real about depression doesn’t mean making it bleak; it just means showing it for what it is, without turning it into something it’s not.
The Bottom Line
Depression isn’t beautiful, but healing can be. Media has the power to help people feel seen and understood, but it also shapes how we view things. We need more stories that show people they’re not alone and that it’s okay to ask for help.
It’s not about erasing sadness or pretending depression doesn’t exist. It’s about making space for hope.
What are your thoughts? Do you think media gets it right, or is there room for improvement?