2 Comedy Series With Surprisingly Accurate Mental Health Representation

Not only are these two series hilarious, but they also nail their representation of psychological disorders.

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | July 25, 2024

Comedy is a great form of refuge for those seeking relief from the trials of everyday life. But sometimes, beneath the humor, some comedy series go deeper than anticipated—giving us poignant and surprisingly accurate portrayals of psychological concepts.

In an era where mental health awareness is crucial, these shows use laughter not just to entertain, but also to shine a light on the realities of mental health. The following two series, through and beyond their wit and humor, provide relatable and insightful depictions of emotional struggles. Here's how they remind us that while laughter is a powerful tool for coping, it can also be a medium for understanding and empathy.

1. Ted Lasso (2020–)

Ted Lasso, a comedy series that has captured hearts worldwide, follows the story of an American football coach who unexpectedly finds himself managing a struggling English soccer team. Despite knowing little about soccer, Ted's optimism and folksy charm endear him to his team and the audience. The BBC holds the series in high regard, stating, "The show's been widely praised for dealing with topics not always seen in comedies—like mental health, racism and homophobia." This blend of humor and serious topics is what makes Ted Lasso stand out—especially in its portrayal of mental health.

In the second season, Ted begins to confront his own mental health struggles. Amid the pressures of managing the team and personal issues from his past, Ted experiences panic attacks that force him to acknowledge his need for help. Reluctantly, he starts going to therapy—a significant step that mirrors a very common struggle for many people.

The show portrays Ted's hesitation and discomfort with such great authenticity, as it captures the fear and stigma that often accompany seeking professional help. Therapy can seem intimidating and unfamiliar, requiring you to confront your inner struggles and vulnerabilities head-on—a process that Ted, like many other everyday people, finds daunting.

This storyline reflects actual psychological research regarding therapy and mental health. According to one study, many individuals find the idea of therapy intimidating. From fears of being judged and the stigma surrounding mental health, to the sheer discomfort of exploring painful emotions—the first step towards therapy can seem miles long.

However, countless studies highlight the transformative power of therapy. Despite initial fears, therapy more than often proves to be a profoundly cathartic and healing experience. And Ted Lasso beautifully illustrates this journey, showing Ted's gradual acceptance and the positive impact therapy has on his well-being.

His journey in therapy is a nuanced process, and simultaneously mirrors the experiences of many first-time therapy goers. The show doesn't offer quick fixes; rather, it portrays the gradual, often challenging path towards mental health. Ted's experiences with panic attacks, anxiety and past trauma are depicted with brutal honesty and empathy—making it deeply relatable. This honesty both helps destigmatize mental health issues and encourages viewers to seek help. It shows that while the journey may be tough, it is ultimately rewarding and vital for well-being.

2. Sex Education (2019–2023)

Sex Education follows the lives of teenagers navigating the highs and lows of sexuality, relationships and self-discovery. As The Washington Post highlights, "The British Netflix series uses this as a framework to explore teen sexuality, and doesn't shy away from topics traditionally seen as TV taboos." These taboos extend beyond sexuality, as the show dissects various tricky issues like abuse, disability and addiction—making it a groundbreaking exploration of adolescent experiences. However, its tactful depiction of mental health is particularly heartwarming.

Among the show's most poignant mental health storylines are those of Aimee and Jackson in the second season. Aimee, after being sexually assaulted on a bus, initially downplays her trauma—but her internal struggle becomes evident over time. However, with her classmates' support, she gradually gains the confidence to confront her fears, and eventually seeks professional help to process her complex trauma.

And Jackson, a competitive swimmer, faces severe anxiety and panic attacks. His anxiety becomes so overwhelming that he injures himself to escape the pressure of his athletic career. But, when his friend informs his parents, it leads to Jackson receiving the professional support he needs. What's most notable in both of these characters' progressions is the critical role that their friends and family play in addressing their mental health issues.

These arcs resonate deeply with real-life experiences, as they illustrate how unspeakably difficult it is to face mental health challenges alone—in turn, they emphasize how crucial it is to leave room in life for a support network. Ample psychological research supports these narratives—emphasizing the vital role of friendship in mental health.

According to a 2018 study, the emotional support that friendships provide us cannot be overstated; they reduce feelings of isolation, encourage positive coping strategies and guide us to both care for ourselves and others. These kinds of unwavering supportive networks significantly bolster mental health outcomes.

Moreover, research from the Journal of Clinical Psychology emphasizes the transformative power that our friends play in seeking professional mental health support. While seeking therapy can be intimidating, knowing that our loved ones both support and encourage this step forward can be catalyzing.

Sex Education depicts these realities beautifully through Aimee and Jackson's journeys—showing that while the path to mental health can be challenging, you never have to go at it alone. Their eventual paths to seeking help are both heartwarming and empowering, as they reflect both the pain and the hope that comes with taking this brave step. In this way, Sex Education not only entertains, but it also educates and empowers its audience; it speaks to how truly necessary support is when, whether professional or not, when times get tough.

Unsure whether you're watching accurate depictions of mental health? Take the Psychological Misconception Scale to learn more.

A similar version of this article can also be found on Forbes.com, here, and on PsychologyToday.com, here.