Movies hold immense power in shaping the way audiences perceive the world. They entertain, inform, and often spark conversations around important social issues, including mental health. However, not all films get it right. The portrayal of mental health in cinema is often riddled with inaccuracies, harmful stereotypes, and stigmatizing narratives that mislead audiences and perpetuate misunderstandings. Here, we take a look at specific movies that misrepresented mental health issues, explore the impact of these portrayals, and emphasize the importance of responsible storytelling in media.

Split (2016)

M. Night Shyamalan’s Split tells the story of Kevin, a man with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), who has 23 personalities living within him—one of whom is disturbingly violent and predatory. While the film is widely recognized for James McAvoy’s incredible acting, its portrayal of DID is problematic. The movie depicts individuals with DID as dangerous and unpredictable, reinforcing damaging stereotypes that associate mental illness with violence.

The reality is quite different. Research shows that people with DID are more likely to be victims of violence rather than perpetrators. By presenting a character with a severe mental illness as inherently threatening, Split fuels unnecessary fear and stigma, making it harder for those living with DID to seek help or share their experiences openly.

Me, Myself & Irene (2000)

This comedy starring Jim Carrey follows a police officer who develops a split personality after suppressing his anger for years. The film perpetuates a widespread myth that "split personalities" are synonymous with DID, often reducing the condition to a comedic trope. Additionally, Me, Myself & Irene portrays the protagonist’s alternate personality as aggressive and dysfunctional, presenting a gross oversimplification.

Beyond inaccuracies, the humorous take trivializes a very real and complex mental health disorder. The film’s careless approach disregards the genuine struggles faced by individuals with DID and promotes misunderstandings about the condition.

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

Although critically acclaimed and praised for its nuanced performances, Silver Linings Playbook doesn’t escape scrutiny. The movie follows Pat, who has bipolar disorder, as he navigates relationships and recovery. While it brings some awareness to mental health, it simplifies Pat’s condition by suggesting that love and a dance competition are enough to "cure" him.

This undermines the reality of living with bipolar disorder, which often requires ongoing therapy, medication, and self-care. The film misses an opportunity to explore the complexities of treatment and the importance of professional help, oversimplifying the disorder to fit a Hollywood narrative.

Joker (2019)

Todd Phillips’ Joker sparked heated debate over its depiction of mental illness. The protagonist, Arthur Fleck, is portrayed as a man battling severe mental health issues while living in isolation and being mistreated by society. Over time, his mental struggles escalate into violent behavior, culminating in chaos and destruction.

This portrayal feeds the harmful stereotype that untreated mental health conditions are directly correlated with extreme violence. It also presents mental illness in a way that isolates the individual from the social systems around them—such as broken healthcare programs—shifting the narrative toward personal tragedy rather than systemic failure. This lack of nuance can reinforce stigmas around seeking treatment and perpetuate fears about people with mental illnesses.

The Consequences of Misrepresentation

The negative portrayal of mental health conditions in movies can have far-reaching effects. When audiences continuously absorb narratives that link mental illness with violence or instability, a culture of fear and stigma flourishes. This not only alienates people who live with these conditions but also discourages them from seeking help due to societal judgment.

For example, inaccurate portrayals can influence hiring practices, housing opportunities, and even friendships for individuals with mental illnesses. The media’s misrepresentation can also deter loved ones from supporting someone dealing with mental health challenges, simply because they don’t have a clear understanding of what those challenges truly entail.

Why Accurate Representation Matters

Filmmakers have a responsibility to handle such sensitive topics with care. Accurate representation goes beyond entertainment—it fosters empathy, educates viewers, and opens the door for meaningful dialogue. When movies depict mental health conditions authentically, they can break down stigma and inspire inclusion.

Take the examples of well-received films like A Beautiful Mind (2001) or The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012). These movies approach mental health with sensitivity and depth, showing the struggles as well as the strengths of individuals living with mental illness. They handle character development and storytelling in a way that humanizes mental health issues, helping audiences relate rather than judge.

What Needs to Change?

To move forward, the film industry needs to prioritize responsible storytelling on mental health issues. Here are some steps filmmakers can take:

  • Consult Experts – Collaborate with psychologists, psychiatrists, and mental health advocates to ensure portrayals are accurate and respectful.
  • Diversify Voices – Include people who’ve experienced mental health challenges in the screenwriting and filmmaking process for authentic perspectives.
  • Avoid Harmful Tropes – Undo the trend of associating mental illness with violence or eccentricity. Showcase a broader, more realistic range of experiences.
  • Highlight Recovery – Show the importance of therapy, medication, and support systems in managing mental health, rather than oversimplifying it into a "quick fix."
  • Raise Awareness – Use films not just for drama but as tools to educate and reduce stigma around mental health topics.

Movies can be a mirror for society, reflecting our values, fears, and dreams. With this power comes the responsibility to represent sensitive topics, like mental health, with care and truthfulness. While some films have unfortunately done more harm than good in their portrayals, there is great potential for cinema to shift public perception toward greater empathy and understanding. Accurate and responsible storytelling can make all the difference—for audiences seeking connection and, more importantly, for individuals living with mental health challenges who deserve to see themselves represented with dignity.