Mental health - film resources

[Jill Anderson]

These resources, catalogued by MindReel, may be of interest and use in teaching.

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Nimbus

Voiced by a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy group, 'Nimbus' explores the dark, and often isolated, world of depression. This short film explores the day-to-day lived experience of people who suffer from depression, and acknowledges some of the barriers to leading a normal life. 

 

Beyond prejudice

"See the person, not the problem"... This quote summarises the importance of this film due to its contribution to our understanding of mental health issues for black and minority ethnic communities in Scotland. 'Beyond Prejudice' explores the lived experiences of those who suffer from mental illness from ethnic minority groups. In particular, those who have overcome depression are interviewed, and many highlight the value of being active outside of the home. Isolation and stigma are key issues that are highlighted by 'Beyond Prejudice'. The people interviewed in this film identify that interaction, socialisation, and regaining an enthusiasm for life that was lost are evidently important factors in recovery. This film covers a wide range of issues, including medical and non-medical interventions in aiding recovery. The need for shared support amongst ethnic minority individuals suffering from mental illness is clear in this film, and it highlights that those who have recovered have a great deal of knowledge and experience to equip them to support others. This film emphasises that finding an individual identity, and a voice, are crucial for all those who have been able to recover from mental illness in black and ethnic minority communities. 

 

Harebells in the Wind

HAPIS is an organisation set up in the Scottish Highlands to provide support for women who experience antenatal and postnatal depression. The film highlights the important work they do, as they expand the services they provide with the demand for support services for mother with antenatal and postnatal depression. The documentary highlights real experiences of women who have come together through HAPIS. Their stories indicate that talking and sharing experience through peer led support provides a means for mothers to cope with depression before and after childbirth. The film also suggests the importance of cognitive behavioural therapy, and how this may encourage positive rather than negative thought processes for mothers suffering from depression. The film identifies that HAPIS has played a key role in helping mothers in the Highlands form a supportive community for one another. 

 

Reflections on Recovery

'Reflections On Recovery' explores in-depth the full experience of recovery through interviews with four service users who identify what recovery means to them. This film highlights the experiences of those who have suffered mental health difficulties, and discusses individual paths to recovery. In doing so the aim is to inspire hope and promote recovery from mental health issues. Common themes identified in 'Reflections On Recovery' are: the importance of establishing a positive self-identity; finding meaning and purpose for a better quality of life; and strong, supportive relationships.  

 

Recovery - a journey of hope

The main aim of this film is to give hope to people with mental health difficulties, and to help dispel negative images of mental health problems. 'Recovery: A Journey of Hope' is also used as a tool to raise awareness amongst service users, carers and professionals alike. This film interviews individuals who recount their own stories of recovery. It illustrates a key message that every person is an individual with a right to recover at their own pace, and in their own way. The film also highlights the partnership between people suffering with mental health problems and those whose role is to facilitate the individual's recovery. This identifies how healthcare workers, with positive attitudes, can help individuals to achieve recovery from mental health illness.