Showtime’s latest season of The Chi delves into the topic of Black men’s mental health by showcasing a healing circle led by character Victor. This episode aimed to provide a safe space for open dialogue and healing among Black men of different age groups, highlighting mental health challenges specific to this community. The depiction of healing circles as a tool for mental health action-taking received praise for its authenticity and relevance. Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios collaborated with BEAM to create a video and webpage offering tips for creating healing circles and directing people to mental health resources post-episode.
As Mental Health Awareness Month approaches in May, Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios is gearing up for its fourth annual Mental Health Action Day on May 16. With the aim of moving beyond awareness to encourage tangible steps for mental health improvement, the event partners with over 2,300 nonprofits, brands, and leaders. This initiative was born out of the recognition that the mental health crisis was exacerbated by the pandemic, sparking a need for action. This year’s focus is on dedicating one hour to social connection in response to the public health epidemic of loneliness, as highlighted by U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy in a recent advisory report.
The call to action to dedicate an hour to social connection is supported by the launch of an interactive video in partnership with youth mental health nonprofit Active Minds which aims to teach young people how to support friends with mental health concerns. The video emphasizes the importance of acknowledging, supporting, and keeping in touch with individuals in need. This effort targets the youth mental health crisis, recognizing that young people often reach out to friends first, who may not know how to help. The involvement of key figures like Murthy and the expansion of partnerships reflect a growing recognition of the urgent need for mental health support and resources for young people.
The involvement of a major brand like Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios in the mental health space may raise questions about the relevance and impact of such initiatives. Beyond the opportunity to address mental health topics through entertainment, the studio’s social impact division underscores the need to cater to diverse audiences with varying concerns. Mental health is positioned as a universal issue that impacts everyone, making it a key focus for a diverse portfolio of content. Success metrics for the mental health campaign involve tracking the number of individuals inspired to take action, with events across various cities funded by Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios and CBS stations aiming to engage a broad audience.
The evolution of mental health campaigns from traditional PSAs to multifaceted events and initiatives reflects a changing landscape in social impact efforts. Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios acknowledges the importance of moving beyond awareness to encourage action on pressing social issues. From healing circles on The Chi to interactive resources for youth, the studio is actively engaging with mental health challenges and supporting initiatives that promote well-being and social connection. As Mental Health Action Day approaches, the focus is on mobilizing communities to prioritize mental health and take concrete steps to support each other.
