1. Compass, Series 33: The Common Thread
After losing his friend to suicide, filmmaker Darius Devas becomes driven to understand suicide and mental health. He travels around Australia to find and share positive stories from young regional Australians who are experiencing mental ill-health.
2. You Can’t Ask That, Series 2 & 3
You Can’t Ask That is a favourite for when it comes to asking hard questions to diverse Australians that live in judgement daily. There are several episodes that specifically cover mental health-related topics, including suicide attempt survivors, schizophrenia and eating disorders. We love this show for its moments of honesty and hear-warming humour.
3. Please Like Me
This heart-warming comedy series is based on the real-life experiences of Australian comedian Josh Thomas, who starred in and directed the show. Throughout the series we see realistic and relatable depictions of mental health, including depression, anxiety, bipolar and panic attacks.
He’s been quoted saying that he wanted to do mental health “in a way that I thought was sort of honest and a bit true to life”. We also love this clip of Thomas talking about why and how he shone a light on mental health through the show.
4. How ‘Mad’ Are You?
This two-part documentary aims to tackle the stigma associated with psychological issues in a completely different way. Ten Australians from different backgrounds and age groups take part in a week-long study where experts try to work out who in the group have a history of mental illness.
It brings to light the wide spectrum of mental health conditions and challenges the experts and viewers alike to question the stereotypes and stories we tell ourselves about what mental ‘ill-health’ means.
5. Nanette
Australian comedian Hannah Gadsby wrote her widely-acclaimed and multi-award-winning show in the midst of the same sex marriage debate and diagnosis of ADHD and autism.
The show centres around her own story and speaks to the marginalised through her social commentary on homophobia, assault, sexism, and of course, mental health. Whilst the whole show isn’t explicitly about mental health, it covers a lot of ground on topics that are all interrelated to mental health.
We truly believe Nanette is worthy of the hype and accolades it has received, for the conversations it starts and thoughts it provokes.
Do you have any other shows that should be added to our list? Let us know on Facebook!
Tailored job search support with your mental health in mind
The team at CoAct understands how difficult it can be to find and keep a job if you are living with mental ill-health. We specialise in working with you to support you through these challenges so that you can find a job that suits your needs.
We provide you with the mentoring, training support and guidance you need to thrive at work.
We also work closely with employers across Australia to ensure people with mental health conditions are supported the workplace, meaning you’re set up to succeed from the start. Get in touch to discuss how CoAct can help with your unique employment needs today.
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If you are thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis help is available. No one needs to face their problems alone. Call Lifeline 24/7 on 13 11 14. The people at Lifeline Australia are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to talk to those struggling with depression or thoughts of self-harm.Call 13 11 14 to talk to someone anytime. The staff there specialise in crisis support and suicide prevention. Visit https://www.lifeline.org.au/ for more information.
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Beyond Blue offers some great resources on dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts. Whether you are suffering yourself, or love someone who is, they have information to help you in your journey. Visit https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ for more information.