If you’re a fan of Ted Lasso, you know just how brilliant this show is. If you haven’t tuned in yet, now is the time—seriously, what are you waiting for? The series has become a cultural phenomenon and a true gift to viewers everywhere.
Beyond just being a delightful watch, Ted Lasso is reshaping conversations around mental health. In its second season, the show has delved deeply into Ted’s struggles with mental health, showcasing therapy as a valuable resource through the character of Dr. Sharon Fieldstone, the team’s therapist. It tackles serious topics like panic attacks, anxiety, and even suicide, while introducing tools for managing mental health, such as meditation and talk therapy. In short, it’s made it acceptable to acknowledge when we’re not okay.
Breaking Ground in Mental Health Conversations
What makes this show groundbreaking isn’t just its focus on mental health, but the way it presents these issues. In Season 2, Dr. Fieldstone is brought in to help the male athletes confront their emotional struggles. We often discuss the physical demands placed on athletes, but emotional and mental challenges are rarely acknowledged. The stigma surrounding mental health, especially among men, is pervasive, with many believing that admitting to such struggles is a sign of weakness.
I was especially disheartened this past summer when I saw a former athlete disparage Simone Biles for prioritizing her mental health. It made me furious. I chose not to engage, prioritizing my own mental well-being instead.
The Importance of Seeking Help
Another significant aspect of Ted Lasso is that it features men seeking help. Statistics show that men are less likely to pursue professional mental health support. A recent survey reported by the Guardian highlighted that men are significantly less likely than women to discuss mental health issues openly. Given that men are three times more likely to die by suicide, this reluctance to seek help is particularly alarming.
In my experience, it’s rare to find men openly discussing their struggles with anxiety or depression. When they do, it’s often in whispers, as if to keep it hidden. Initially, Ted responded in a similar way, and that’s what has me feeling uneasy about the upcoming episode.
Concerns About Ted’s Portrayal
I genuinely feel anxious about how the show will portray Ted’s response to his panic attack becoming public knowledge. Will he deny it or confront it? Denial could reinforce stigma, while acceptance would challenge it.
Given the show’s track record of handling mental health with empathy and humor, I remain hopeful that it will be done well. However, the fear of a negative portrayal looms large. The series has worked so hard to normalize discussions about mental health; it would be disappointing if it fell short now.
As someone who has experienced depression and anxiety, and who has been in therapy for several years, I appreciate how Ted Lasso has tackled these themes. My family and I watch it together, and it encourages us to embrace our emotions and prioritize our mental health.
Changing the Narrative
Ted Lasso has made a significant impact by bringing mental health into the open with compassion and humor. It’s not just a light-hearted series; it’s changing the narrative around mental health issues. That’s why I’m anxious about how they will portray Ted’s anxiety. Maybe I’ll take a cue from Dr. Fieldstone and try some breathing exercises.
Please, Ted Lasso, don’t let us down now.
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Summary
Ted Lasso has captivated audiences by addressing mental health issues with humor and empathy. As the finale approaches, the author expresses worry about how the show will handle Ted’s anxiety in light of public awareness. The series has played a pivotal role in destigmatizing mental health discussions, particularly among men, and the author hopes it will continue to do so.