From Violet Evergarden to ReLife, here are the finest anime series that deal with depression and other mental health struggles.
Over the last decade, anime has emerged as a powerful medium for exploring various themes — psychological thrillers, horror, neo-noir and even mental health issues like depression. Thanks to their lucid portrayal of complex human emotion and psyche, the anime world has caught audiences’ attention by shedding light on these.
Seasoned anime fans must be aware that this genre possesses numerous emotionally intense series that transcend mere tearjerkers. These shows grapple with profound philosophical concepts concerning humanity, existence and morality while addressing intimate issues like depression and social anxiety. From thought-provoking dramas to surrealistic fantasies, mental health-related anime tackle themes of depression, anxiety, trauma and the quest for self-discovery with sensitivity.
Audiences are often hooked to these as they can relate to the societal stigmas and experiences portrayed. Thus it becomes an opportunity to explore one’s innermost emotions and find solace in the power of shared experiences.
From classic shows that are a must-watch for beginners, like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Violet Evergarden and Serial Experiments Lain, to contemporary favourites such as Orange, Fruits Basket and ReLife, here are some of the most impactful anime series about depression and other mental health issues that can pave a path for conversations around mental well-being.
Best anime about dealing with depression, social anxiety and other mental health struggles
Fruits Basket (2019)
Fruits Basket tells the story of Tohru Honda, an orphaned girl who discovers 13 members of the Sohma family are cursed to transform into animals from the Chinese zodiac when hugged by someone of the opposite gender or under stress.
The series underscores elements related to depression through the struggles of some characters. For example, several characters in the Sohma family, such as Yuki and Kyo, battle internal conflicts and emotional wounds stemming from their past traumas and family dynamics. Yuki faces feelings of worthlessness and struggles with self-esteem due to his upbringing. Kyo deals with self-loathing because of his curse and the belief that he is unworthy of love and acceptance.
IMDb rating: 8.6/10
Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity faces threats from mysterious beings known as Angels, Neon Genesis Evangelion primarily follows the experiences of its main characters, particularly Shinji Ikari. He is a teenager recruited by an organisation to pilot a giant bio-mechanical robot called an Evangelion to defend against the Angels.
Shinji grapples with a bunch of psychological issues including depression, anxiety and feelings of worthlessness. His complex relationship with his estranged father, Gendo Ikari and the pressure to live up to expectations only deteriorate his mental health struggles.
Additionally, other characters in the series including Rei Ayanami and Asuka Langley Soryu, also deal with their psychological issues, adding layers of complexity to the overall exploration of mental health topics. Their interactions with Shinji and each other further highlight the impact of trauma and emotional vulnerability on the human psyche.
IMDb rating: 8.5/10
Your Lie in April (2014)
In Your Lie in April, Kousei Arima is a former child prodigy pianist who cannot hear the sound of his piano playing, after his mother’s death. Kousei develops a condition known as psychogenic or conversion disorder, which manifests physical symptoms. As the series progresses, we see Kousei’s struggle with grief and the psychological barriers that prevent him from reconnecting with his passion for music.
Throughout the story, he handles guilt, self-doubt and the fear of failure emotions, all of which contribute to his depressive struggles. The anime sensitively explores the complexities of grief, highlighting the importance of emotional support and healing.
IMDb rating: 8.5/10
Violet Evergarden (2018)
An original anime series, Violet Evergarden is about a former soldier who struggles to reintegrate into civilian life due to her past trauma and emotional detachment after the war. She works as an Auto Memory Doll, ghostwriting letters for people who struggle to express their emotions. As she helps others convey their feelings through her writing, she unravels her emotions to begin healing.
The anime offers an introspective exploration of the human condition, touching upon aspects of emotional well-being through its excellent writing and character development.
IMDb rating: 8.4/10
The Tatami Galaxy (2010)
The Tatami Galaxy tells the story of a nameless protagonist, referred to as Watashi, as he navigates his college life. The series is told through a unique narrative style, where Watashi relives his college years over and over again, each time making different choices that lead to various outcomes. He joins various clubs, meets different people and tries to find love.
Along the way, he encounters eccentric characters such as Ozu and Akashi. Throughout the series, Watashi is driven by the desire to achieve the campus life he has always dreamed of but repeatedly falls short due to his insecurities, indecisiveness and self-imposed limitations.
While the anime series may not directly address mental health issues, it looks into themes closely related to mental well-being and personal development.
IMDb rating: 8.4/10
March Comes in Like a Lion (2016)
March Comes in Like a Lion portrays themes of mental health, loneliness and depression through Rei Kiriyama’s experiences. He is a professional shogi (Japanese chess) player who has struggled with profound emotions of isolation and depression since childhood. Orphaned at a young age, Rei is haunted by traumatic memories and struggles to connect with others.
Through interacting with various characters including the three Kawamoto sisters who offer warmth and support, he starts confronting his inner demons and embraces the prospect of discovering happiness and belonging.
The anime series underlines the healing power of creativity and self-expression with Rei finding solace in shogi and discovering a sense of purpose through his passion for the game.
IMDb rating: 8.3/10
Welcome to the N.H.K (2006)
Welcome to the NHK emphasises mental health, particularly through the experiences of its main character, Tatsuhiro Satou. The plot follows Satou, a young man who suffers from severe social withdrawal and struggles with various psychological issues, including depression, anxiety and paranoia. He is portrayed as a troubled individual who finds himself trapped in a cycle of self-destructive behaviour and isolation, often unable to break free from his negative thoughts and patterns. He begins to tackle his issues by seeking help and support from various sources, including a mysterious girl named Misaki Nakahara.
The anime series is a realistic portrayal of mental health struggles, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals dealing with conditions such as depression and social anxiety. It provides a sensitive and thought-provoking exploration of the importance of seeking help, building meaningful connections and finding hope during troubled times.
IMDb rating: 8.3/10
Serial Experiments Lain (1998)
Serial Experiments Lain explores complex themes of identity under the influence of evolving technologies. While mental health isn’t the central focus of the plot, it is a recurring theme throughout the series.
Lain Iwakura is a quiet and introverted teenage girl who becomes increasingly involved with the virtual world known as the Wired after receiving an email from a classmate who recently died by suicide. As Lain immerses herself further into the Wired, she starts to doubt her existence and ponder the essence of reality.
The anime series raises important questions about the nature of consciousness and the effects of technology on our mental well-being.
IMDb rating: 8.1/10
ReLife (2016)
ReLife follows the story of Arata Kaizaki, a 27-year-old man facing professional and personal difficulties. He decides to participate in an experimental program, where he is provided with a pill that makes him appear 10 years younger and is enrolled as a high school student for a year. For Arata, the programme aims to relive his high school years and reevaluate his life choices.
The anime subtly reflects Arata’s self-growth journey. Through this, it highlights the significance of acknowledging one’s emotions, healing past traumas and finding hope for the future.
IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Honey and Clover (2005)
Honey and Clover follows the intertwining lives of five art college students — Yuta, Takumi, Shinobu, Hagumi and Ayumi. They navigate friendship, love and artistic ambitions amidst personal struggles and growth. Yuta has unrequited feelings for Hagumi, while Takumi pines for Ayumi. Shinobu grapples with his past and Hagumi struggles with her talent and emotions.
The anime series offers nuanced portrayals of human emotions and the challenges young adults face as they transition to adulthood. Young anime fans are bound to find the characters’ experiences relatable.
IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Orange (2016)
Orange uncovers one of the most heartfelt stories in the anime universe. Naho Takamiya, a high school student receives a letter from her future self, warning her about the regrets she will have if she doesn’t change her actions. The letter focuses on Naho’s interactions with a new transfer student named Kakeru Naruse.
As Naho and her friends receive more letters from their future selves, they learn about Kakeru’s struggles with depression and the role they play in his life. The series portrays Kakeru’s emotional turmoil and the challenges he faces. To alter the future, the group of friends confront their insecurities and learn the importance of reaching out to others in need.
Along with addressing mental health and depression concerns, the series delivers an earnest story of hope, redemption and personal growth.
IMDb rating: 7.6/10
Sayonara, Zetsubou-Sensei (2007)
Sayonara, Zetsubou-Sensei revolves around a high school teacher Nozomu Itoshiki, constantly overwhelmed by despair and hopelessness. While the comedy anime uses humour as its primary mode of storytelling, it touches upon various aspects of mental health, particularly through the characters’ eccentricities and exaggerated traits.
Nozomu frequently finds himself in absurd situations, often contemplating existential dread, societal issues and life’s meaning. His extreme pessimism and constant desire to escape from reality serve as a satirical commentary on the human condition, including mental health struggles such as depression and anxiety.
IMDb rating: 7.5/10
Wonder Egg Priority
In Wonder Egg Priority, Ai Ohto is a teenage girl who begins to experience vivid dreams where she is tasked with saving people by retrieving Wonder Eggs from a surreal world known as the Egg World. As Ai and her friends discover the mysteries of the Egg World, they confront their traumas and insecurities, which attack in the form of monstrous creatures called Seeno Evils.
Each episode explores the backstory and struggles of different characters deeply affected by societal pressures, abuse and bullying.
IMDb rating: 7.4/10
WataMote: No Matter How I Look at It, It’s You Guys’ Fault I’m Not Popular! (2013)
Tomoko Kuroki, a 15-year-old otaku, anticipated high school popularity owing to her expertise in otome games and dating simulators. However, she finds herself isolated and unsocial, yet determined to apply her knowledge of social dynamics. Tomoko chases to enhance her social standing among her classmates, throughout her high school journey.
Tomoko’s inner thoughts and insecurities highlight the negative effects of her social anxiety on her daily life and mental well-being. She frequently experiences loneliness, self-doubt and frustration as she deals with adolescence and attempts to break out of her shell.
The series provides a relatable look at the internal struggles faced by teenagers, offering both humour and empathy.
IMDb rating: 7.2/10
(Hero and feature image credit: IMDb)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– Which is the best anime series about depression?
Orange, Fruits Basket, Violet Evergarden, ReLife and Wonder Egg Priority are some of the best anime series that sensitively portray depression.
– Which is the best anime movie about depression?
A Silent Voice, Violet Evergarden, 5 Centimeters per Second, Perfect Blue and Her Blue Sky are some of the best anime movies about mental health conditions like depression and their impact.
Sanika lives for fashion and skincare. She enjoys writing about style, beauty, and lifestyle. She worked as a fashion writer for Man's World India magazine. When not writing about designers and trends, she likes to shop, travel, try new Sushi restaurants, practise pilates and rewatch her comfort shows.
Most Popular
