Lights, Camera, Therapy!: When psychology meets storytelling in TV dramas.

Heartscape has been chosen as a consultant for an upcoming Mediacorp drama production on mental health and the work of a psychotherapist.

Why is this meaningful?

• It destigmatises the struggles. When a character faces mental health issues, takes medication, or attends therapy sessions without being shamed for it, it helps to remove the taboo of seeking help.

  
  

• Viewers may feel that their own feelings are being validated and shared by others, which can be a very big step in healing. It sends a message that you are not alone.

  
  

• Viewers who have loved ones who are struggling can learn from identifying worrying behaviours and open up the conversation about mental health support.

  
  

• When we struggle to convey our emotions and feelings to others, hearing a favourite character say what they’re feeling can help us find the words for expression.

  
  

• It helps us understand the perspectives of others and empathise with them (depressive states, neurodivergence, etc.)

  
  

• It helps us realise that recovery is possible. While mental illness may be tiring to live with, it is possible to recover when the right steps are taken.

  
  

• Many shows now offer helplines, which can be useful for those unsure where to find help or where to start.

However, it is important to note that shows do not reflect reality as their main prioritisation is drama over clinical accuracy.

Therapy can look different, and the majority of the time, shows do not depict accurate therapeutic mechanisms. Therapy and ethical practice guidelines should be referenced from supported resources such as the Singapore Psychological Society (SPS) and the American Psychological Association (APA), and not from TV shows.

Heartscape director Shi Min Liew with actor Romeo Tan

A huge thank you to Mediacorp Singapore for the opportunity to collaborate as a consultant. No spoilers though: you'll have to watch 😉