Growing up, my struggles with mental health often made me feel alone. Often, my only role models were the characters I would watch on television. Here are a few characters that had a real conversation about mental health through their roles, inspiring me to cope with my personal struggles.

1. Erin Silver from 90210

Erin Silver from 90210 struggled with bi-polar throughout the series. At first, she struggled to cope. With time and support from friends, family, and counselors, Silver was able to move forward and embrace her condition. She openly spoke about her condition and took medication to help her cope, showing viewers that it is more than okay to ask for help. For these reason’s, Silver was truly an inspiration.

2. Emma Pillsbury from Glee

From the start of the series, Emma Pillsbury struggles with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD. At first, she is not able to admit she has a problem. As the series progresses, she learns to open up about her OCD to those she cares about, specifically her love interest Will Schuester. Together, they learn to work through her condition. I feel that this example is extremely important, because it truly depicted how important it is to help those you love maintain a strong mental health.

 

3. Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl

Although Blair Waldorf isn’t as open about her struggles, by the end of the series, it is clear that Waldorf struggled with Bulimia. The most inspiring thing about Waldorf is that she always makes sure to take care of herself. Throughout the series, she learns to cope, becoming strong, inspiring and independent.

4. David Karofsky from Glee

David Karofsky from Glee was an extremely interesting character because of the levels of depth he carried. At first, he was depicted as a bully, who constantly bullied Kurt Hummel. Later, however, viewers learned that Karofsky was gay. Struggling with his self-esteem, Karofsky entered a depression and attempted suicide. The complexity of his condition truly depicted all sides of mental-health.

At the end of the day, these characters became role models for those who had not yet learned to speak up about mental health. I found myself completely inspired when following the journey of these characters. For more information on mental health, and if you or someone you know is struggling, click here.

IMAGE COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES.

By Sanah Jivani on June 10, 2016
Sanah is a honors college student at the University of Texas at San Antonio who is double majoring in Sociology and Communications. She is the founder of a non-profit organization called The Love Your Natural Self Foundation, which works to help individuals build confidence. Her biggest dream is to make a difference in the world through her organization and her writing.