Mental health disorders are one of the most common yet less spoken of health crises plaguing millions of people worldwide. With people becoming increasingly disconnected from one another, struggling with identity crises, and unable to handle adverse situations in a seemingly fast-paced world, mental health has become one of the world’s most popular topics.

Several individuals who have been through a mental health crisis have been creating awareness and opening up recently to the public about their struggles in the hopes that others will be encouraged to seek help. They have achieved this by openly documenting their struggles with the use of social media and other new-age platforms like podcasts, TV shows, documentary series etc., with celebrities and high-status individuals leading the conversation.

Due to the demand for more detailed and precise information on the struggles, symptoms, and treatments of diverse mental health issues, there is an increasing need for data-backed information on what it entails to live with mental illness. The media has been a useful tool for this purpose.

The media is known to exert one of the most powerful influences on individuals as most people draw their definitions about life from what they watch and read consistently. Statistics show that many people spend at least 8 hours on television and social media every day.

Among other media platforms, mental health podcasts and TV shows are two popular media sources used to create awareness about mental health. From depression to addiction, anxiety, and trauma, people have come out to share their experiences and connect deeply with others who are going through the same. What makes this so effective is the sharing of both factual information and real-life experiences. Generally, it is known that people listen more when they sense a person truly understand what they are going through. Individuals have created mental health podcasts to suit audio listeners, taking a peaceful, serene tone and approach synonymous with a traditional therapy session.

One factor that makes podcasts an attractive platform is that it creates an intimate feeling for most people. People have reported feeling like the hosts are talking to them done, and that special feeling has a profound effect on how they respond to whatever situation is being addressed. Mental health podcasts help most individuals feel like they are not alone, and they give them the strength to push through, through open and honest conversations.

Therefore, it is certain that while these podcasts cannot necessarily solve mental health issues, as medical cure is still needed – therapy, meditation, and medication – they will start meaningful conversations with people, which is a step in the right direction.