Just Like You - Anxiety + Depression
By Sabrina McFarland,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Candid narratives shed light on mental health stigma.
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Just Like You - Anxiety + Depression
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Based on 2 parent reviews
Perfect for people that have no idea what anxiety or depression are
What's the Story?
In JUST LIKE YOU - ANXIETY + DEPRESSION, a diverse group of kids, teens, and adults share their experiences with anxiety disorders and depression. The film also takes a deep dive into these medical conditions and the ways in which a person can seek help and how others can assist. Reportedly, three million kids and teens between the ages of 12 and 17 live with depression in the United States, and more teens and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease combined.
Is It Any Good?
This documentary's powerful portraits highlight the steadfast social shame and difficulties linked to anxiety disorders and depression. "One of the low points of my depression was sitting in my closet for minutes, maybe hours, sobbing with tears dripping down my cheeks with no motivation and no reason to leave," recalls award-winning broadcast journalist Ryan Lefebvre in Just Like You - Anxiety + Depression. "I was alone. I was abandoned. I was lost." Similarly, aspiring young writer RoShaun Moore describes how he cried while taking a shower, and "then I would push it aside ... I spent a lot of time putting on a mask." As it distinctly unveils what anxiety disorders and depression are, Just Like You also shares how talking and listening could be the help needed for someone to thrive.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the communication shared by the cast in Just Like You - Anxiety + Depression. How do they also demonstrate compassion, empathy, and gratitude? Why are these important character strengths?
What are the differences between anxiety and anxiety disorder? What can family and friends do to possibly help someone suffering from one of these conditions?
What is depression? In what ways may it be treated and managed?
Why is social media considered a possible trigger for anxiety disorders?
Families can also talk about suicide and the way it's addressed here. Why is it important to talk about mental health, especially if you're worried about a friend or family member? Note: If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline online or by phone at 1-800-273-8255 (for the deaf and hard of hearing, contact 1-800-799-4889). Spanish speakers can call 1-888-628-9454.
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: March 8, 2022
- Cast: Abby Eden , Ryan Lefebvre , RoShaun Moore
- Director: Jen Greenstreet
- Studio: Gravitas Ventures
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Friendship , Great Boy Role Models , Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Communication , Compassion , Empathy , Gratitude
- Run time: 77 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 17, 2023
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