Mental Illness in Movies

Angels of the universe

Hello

and welcome to our next lecture. This time we are going to dive into one of the most serious mental illnesses - schizophrenia. 


First of all, as usual, let's study the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia:

Diagnostic criteria

1. Two or more of the following for at least a one month (or longer period of time), and at least one of them must be a 1, 2, or 3:

1. Impairment in one of the major areas of functioning for a significant period of time since the onset of the disturbance: Work, interpersonal relations, or self-care.

2. Some signs of the disorder must last for a continuous period of at least 6 months. This six-month period must include at least one month of symptoms (or less if treated) that meet criterion A (active phase symptoms) and may include periods of residual symptoms. During residual periods, only negative symptoms may be present.

3. Schizoaffective disorder and bipolar or depressive disorder with psychotic features have been ruled out:

  • No major depressive or manic episodes occurred concurrently with active phase symptoms
  • If mood episodes (depressive or manic) have occurred during active phase symptoms, they have been present for a minority of the total duration of the active and residual phases of the illness.

1. The disturbance is not caused by the effects of a substance or another medical condition

2. If there is a history of autism spectrum disorder or a communication disorder (childhood onset), the diagnosis of schizophrenia is only made if prominent delusions or hallucinations, along with other symptoms, are present for at least one month.


If you want to learn more about recent changes, you may study this page: 

If you don´t have much time, just look here :) 


For those of you who prefer visuals: 



Well, now you have enough information to watch the film :) 


Questions to sparkle discussion:

What early signs of onset schizophrenia can we see in the movie?

In what ways does the movie explore stigma around schizophrenia?

How do Pall's friends and family react to his (not so) sudden change?

Does the film reinforce any stereotypes around schizophrenia? What would you say is the most common stereotype in today's media? 

What role does art play in the portrayal of schizophrenia in this movie?

Please upload a link to your meeting recording and provide the full names (first and last) of all participants. Ensure the link remains active until the end of the semester.


If you have more time to explore schizophrenia, you can also watch:


A Beautiful Mind


Donnie Darko


Some Voices