Right now, there’s a lot of controversy about 13 Reasons Why and how it is portraying mental illness in a bad light and that it’s too graphic. I get all these concerns – I totally feel you guys but here’s where I’m at with it: this thing may not reflect your mental illness experience but it probably reflects someone else’s. No one goes through mental illness in the same way and if your experience isn’t being represented, find a way to make it be. Hell, that’s a big part of why I’m writing this! I guess my point is, don’t assume that people are trying to hurt you. That part is hard as hell but give it a shot. I don’t feel represented by 13 Reasons Why (I’m also not watching it because I think it would be too much for me but I have read the book so I get the jist) but I’ve read some feedback of people for whom it hit close to home. I think art of all kinds should be allowed to exist – especially if it’s the kind of art that is trying to help people. I do think there should be more art in the world that addresses mental illness in a way that shows recovery. One of my beloved friends who is also depressed and anxious said to me once, “how come on TV all they ever show is mental illness people going crazy and committing suicide? Is that all I have to look forward to?” And no. It’s not. I am recovering. There are so many people out in the universe that are recovering and maybe you can to. Look forward to recovery. Do what you can to get there. I have faith enough for the both of us.
The Life of a Mourning Dove 