Top 10 Sitcoms Got Real About Mental Health
#10: Uncle Ned
“Family Ties” (1982–89)
Perceptions about substance use disorder have changed over time. So, for an ‘80s sitcom to tackle alcohol use disorder in such a sincere way would have certainly been groundbreaking. In this season 2 episode, Uncle Ned, played by Tom Hanks, struggles with drinking. We see how this affects different parts of his life, from his professional endeavors to his relationship with his family. When they try to intervene, he initially becomes defensive and lashes out. What makes this episode so remarkable is how the writers get the audience to understand and sympathize with Ned rather than judge and demonize him. It’s a message that still needs to be heard today.
#9: Christy & Bonnie Plunkett
“Mom” (2013-21)
Allison Janney and Anna Faris play a mother and daughter on the road to recovery following battles with substance use disorder. The show has become acclaimed for the way it addressed a plethora of difficult topics with sensitivity and often humor, and for good reason. “Mom” demonstrates that the path to sobriety isn’t always smooth, struggles come in many shapes, and there’s no one right way to recover. Executive producer and co-creator Chuck Lorre shared that a lot of research went into depicting these topics in a way that felt “honest and true.” They even teamed up with Dr. Vivek (viVEK) H. Murthy for a PSA on the severity of substance use disorder and called for more “compassion and help.”
#8: Kimmy Schmidt
“Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” (2015-19; 2020)
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Kimmy Schmidt is a pluckier-than-average go-getter enjoying her freedom after 15 years of captivity. However, we soon see that her positive attitude and big smiles are part of a deeper inner struggle that has been widely likened to post-traumatic stress disorder. Kimmy’s past and its long-lasting effects are explored through flashbacks and triggers that affect her day-to-day life. Season two starts delving further into the subject when she starts going to therapy. And anytime Kimmy interacts with a fellow “Mole Woman,” we’re reminded that there’s no one way to cope with trauma. While her story is typically told through a comedic lens, it doesn’t detract from exploring truths that’ll feel real to many.
#7: Chris Traeger
“Parks and Recreation” (2009-15; 2020)
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This government employee is literally the happiest and most upbeat person you’ll ever meet. But as we get to know him, we see a deep-rooted sadness begin to seep through his otherwise sunny disposition. Chris obsessively takes care of his physical health and is basically prepared to outlive us all. However, we later learn that he also relies on exercise for his mental well-being. And it’s relatable. Eventually, he starts working through his depression and anxiety in therapy, showing that mental illness doesn’t discriminate and treatment isn’t linear. At the end of the day, Chris is a multifaceted character who shows viewers that they’re not defined by their struggles, and actually, it’s good to feel your emotions.
#6: Dr. Kevin Casey
“Scrubs” (2001-10)
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It’s believed that roughly 1 in 100 adults across the United States has Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Yet, it’s still highly under and misrepresented across various media. People with OCD tend to battle uncontrollable and intrusive thoughts that they feel can only be alleviated through repetitive, compulsive actions. Many series, though, fail to grasp the scope of the condition, oversimplifying it in portrayals. But this guest appearance from Michael J. Fox in “Scrubs” shows just how debilitating this misunderstood disorder can be. Dr. Casey’s compulsive behavior is initially played for laughs. However, when J.D. catches him hours after surgery still washing his hands, the pain and frustration caused by his condition are on full display.
#5: Dorothy Zbornak
“The Golden Girls” (1985-92)
“The Golden Girls” was ahead of its time in many ways. Remember the episode where Rose battled her substance use disorder? It also broke new ground, showing audiences how mental and physical health intertwine and that not all illnesses are visible. In this season five two-parter, inspired by creator Susan Harris’s actual experiences, Dorothy tries to find an explanation for her ongoing fatigue and general unwellness. One doctor notably dismisses her symptoms since he can’t see anything wrong. Eventually, she sees someone else who gives her the validation she deserves and diagnoses her with chronic fatigue syndrome. As for the other doctor, he gets a talking to he’ll never forget.
#4: Rainbow Johnson
“Black-ish” (2014-22)
It’s been reported that one in eight women across the U.S. may have experienced symptoms of postpartum depression. Among them is “Black-ish” writer and executive producer Corey Nickerson, who, after sharing her story, discovered that several of her colleagues could relate. She noted how little is known about the condition in the mainstream, and how it’s not an easy diagnosis to receive. In the show, Bow struggles with postpartum depression after the birth of DeVante. Her story arc shows how it can affect anyone and be a harrowing and lonely place. Nickerson said she hoped the episode would help anyone who related feel less alone and more seen and encourage them to seek help.
#3: Jessi Glaser
“Big Mouth” (2017-)
“Big Mouth” depicts a group of teens with Hormone Monsters who tend to affect their actions and behaviors. It also does a phenomenal job of representing mental illness in a powerful and relatable way. Kitty Bouchet (Bou-shay), a.k.a Depression Kitty, enters the picture in season two, silently stepping into Jessi’s life. After taking over from Connie, she grabs hold of the teen and refuses to let go. Even though Jessi manages to defeat her at first, she makes several subsequent returns illustrating the highs and lows of the condition. We’d also be remiss not to mention Jessi’s struggles with anxiety. Eventually, with therapy and Connie by her side, the character learns to manage and cope, and her journey is nothing if not realistic.
#2: BoJack Horseman
“BoJack Horseman” (2014-20)
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This animated Netflix series surprised audiences with its poignant and thoughtful approach to mental health. BoJack and other characters struggle with depression, substance use disorder, and more. It’s a raw and gritty take that shows how these battles impact everyone, from those struggling to those around them. It also shows that recovery is a continuous journey, but every tiny step is a win. And although the initial intention wasn’t to craft a show about mental health, the authenticity of these storylines has resonated with many and made them feel seen and heard. Creator Raphael Bob-Waksberg shared that he's most proud of hearing how the series has helped people.
#1: Several Characters
“One Day at a Time” (2017–20)
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This underrated sitcom tackles everything from depression and PTSD to anxiety and substance use disorder. But it also skillfully examines mental health through the lens of race and generation. Indeed, for a long time, Penelope hides her battles from her kids. In turn, Elena initially doesn’t share that she’s experienced anxiety attacks, either. Episodes like season two’s “Hello, Penelope” and season three’s “Anxiety” explore the complexities and nuances of mental health and recovery in a way that have undoubtedly resonated with many. We also see Penelope’s ex Victor struggle with PTSD, and both he and Schneider battle substance use disorders. Through this representation, the show teaches audiences that open conversation is the best way to stomp out stigma, and does so powerfully at that.
