May is Mental Health Awareness Month. If you've ever wanted to learn more about mental health—what it is, how it works, and the research on it—Netflix is a great source. So instead of watching reruns of your go-to comedy series, switch gears and learn a thing or two. Here are a few shows/documentaries/movies about mental health to watch on Netflix.
The Mind Explained
This Netflix original limited series dives into what happens inside the brain when we dream, use psychedelic drugs, experience anxiety, practice mindfulness and more. Watch the episode "Anxiety," in which comedian Maria Bamford discusses her personal experience with OCD, an anxiety disorder, and the episode "Mindfulness" to learn about the effects meditation has on the body.
Take Your Pills
If you or someone close to you has ever been prescribed drugs like Ritalin or Adderall, this documentary is for you. Director Alison Klayman explores the rampant use—and abuse—of prescription stimulants in America.
Minimalism
Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things explores what it means to live with less. Take a look inside the lives of people who strive to live a meaningful life with fewer things.