This week is Mental Health Awareness Week (May 15th - May 21st) and the topic of conversation is anxiety. To spread the word about mental health and also to help others, I thought I'd share some feel-good movies that you can watch when you need a pick-me-up.
In the modern day and age, mental health is much more widely spoken about than it used to be in the past. Celebrities are talking about it, there are books on it and people are learning to share their experiences with it.
However, there is still a certain stigma surrounding it. Many still don't fully understand exactly what it means to have a mental health crisis or a mental illness. Yes, there is information out there for us all to read, but it can be quite confusing.
Many people I know struggle with their mental health, even I have low moments throughout the week. But by doing things that make me feel good and make me smile, I can overcome those tough moments and improve how I feel mentally.
One way in which I overcome feeling down and having poor mental health is by watching movies I love and know will make me smile.
And because it's Mental Health Awareness Week, I thought I'd share some of these movies with you all in case you ever need them.
Mamma Mia
I am a big musical lover and love to see shows in the West End and binge-watch musicals; in fact, I'm currently watching Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies on Paramount+.
But nothing will ever beat the movie version of Mamma Mia. Everything about this film, and even the sequel Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again, makes you just want to embrace your inner dancing queen and sing-a-long to Abba.
I could probably recite the whole film and definitely all the songs, so it's no surprise that this movie makes my list of feel-good films to improve your mental health.
If you're feeling low, give it a watch and have a little dance to Abba!
Harry Potter Franchise
The Harry Potter franchise will always be one of my favourite movie franchises. All eight films give you something different and for many, including me, they're actually comfort films.
Harry Potter is iconic and timeless - it's for any and all ages - so if you want to feel a little better, immerse yourself in the fantastical and magical world of Harry Potter and Hogwarts.
Just out of curiosity, if you like the Harry Potter movies (and books, of course), which one is your favourite?
The Holiday
Dubbed by many as a Christmas film, The Holiday is among many people's favourites.
Yes, it takes place close to Christmas and it involves snow and hot chocolate, but The Holiday is a heart-warming romance that'll make you laugh and smile along with the characters.
Also, if you need to have a rant or a scream, you can join Cameron Diaz whilst she shouts along to Mr Brightside.
Encanto
The Disney musical Encanto rose to fame with its catchy songs and heart-warming tale. The movie is a comfort film for many, as Disney films are often, and it is one I wouldn't mind watching when I feel down and need a pick-me-up.
The songs are all well-known, especially We Don't Talk About Bruno and the familial feel of the movie works its Disney magic and will be sure to make you smile.
Top Gun: Maverick
Now, I like a lot of different movies in all genres and Top Gun: Maverick has to be my favourite film of all time. I can rewatch it and never get bored.
Whilst an action film may seem a bit strange to be on a list about movies to improve your mental health, I can assure you it's not...trust me.
This film has everything a film needs: great actors, a fantastic plot, good music, comedy, romance, action (and plenty of it), a bit of sadness, and a happy ending.
So if you're having a dip in your mental health and aren't quite feeling yourself, give some of these a watch and hopefully, you'll feel better. Also, if you have your own movies that are your go-to choices, let me know in the comments below.
Until next time...