Certain movies, due to their intense themes, graphic imagery, or distressing content, can negatively impact mental health, especially for individuals sensitive to emotional triggers. Below are some films that can be particularly harmful, especially for those struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma.

Keywords: Worst movies for mental health, Movies that trigger anxiety, Films harmful to mental health, Psychological impact of horror films, Movies that affect depression, Films to avoid with PTSD, Mental health triggers in movies, Movies with negative emotional impact, Disturbing films and mental health, How movies affect mental well-being

Darren Aronofsky’s Requiem for a Dream is known for its harrowing portrayal of addiction and its destructive impact on individuals’ lives. The film’s intense visuals, disturbing subject matter, and unrelenting downward spiral of its characters can be emotionally overwhelming. Studies show that prolonged exposure to distressing content can exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety, especially for those recovering from addiction (American Psychological Association, 2013).

Hereditary is a psychological horror film that delves deeply into themes of family trauma and mental illness. While it’s celebrated for its masterful tension, viewers sensitive to themes of grief, familial breakdown, or mental health disorders may find it unsettling. Psychological horror films can often trigger feelings of paranoia and anxiety in vulnerable individuals, according to research on the impact of horror films on mental health (Sparks & Sparks, 2000).

A Serbian Film is often cited as one of the most disturbing films ever made due to its graphic depictions of violence, including sexual violence. The extreme content has led mental health professionals to warn against viewing such films, as they may trigger PTSD or cause long-term distress, particularly in individuals with trauma histories (Harvard Health Publishing, 2018).

Based on Cormac McCarthy’s novel, The Road is a bleak post-apocalyptic drama that explores themes of survival, loss, and hopelessness. The film’s dark tone, combined with its focus on the collapse of society, can exacerbate feelings of existential dread or despair, especially in those prone to depressive episodes. Exposure to films with highly pessimistic narratives can worsen mental health conditions like anxiety or depression (Psychiatry Research, 2014).

Lars von Trier’s Melancholia is a visually stunning but emotionally heavy film about depression, existential despair, and the end of the world. While it accurately portrays the experience of mental illness, it can also be triggering for those who struggle with depressive disorders, as the film immerses viewers in a bleak, hopeless world. The intense focus on apathy and doom can leave viewers with lasting feelings of sadness or hopelessness (Cohen & Pressman, 2015).

While film can be a powerful medium for exploring deep and sometimes uncomfortable emotions, certain movies may exacerbate mental health conditions, especially for individuals who are vulnerable to anxiety, depression, or trauma. If you are sensitive to distressing content, it’s important to be mindful of your mental health when choosing which films to watch. Consider reading reviews or content warnings beforehand to avoid potential triggers.

• American Psychological Association. (2013). The Impact of Media on Mental Health.
• Harvard Health Publishing. (2018). Watching Violent Media Can Affect Mental Health.
• Sparks, G. G., & Sparks, C. W. (2000). Effects of Media on Anxiety and Paranoia. Journal of Communication Research.
• Cohen, S., & Pressman, S. (2015). Negative Media, Depression, and Well-being. Journal of Clinical Psychology.
• Psychiatry Research. (2014). The Impact of Post-apocalyptic Films on Mental Health. Psychiatry Research Journal.

How to get in touch

If you or your NDIS participant need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.