Introduction
One of the reasons for writing about the Korean drama series “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” (2020) is the global deterioration of mental health. Directed by Park Sin Woo and written by Jo Yong, the series intelligently tackles this issue through a combination of a fairy tale narrative and a detailed exploration of life in a Korean psychiatric hospital. Starring Kim Soo-hyun and Seo Ye-ji, the show delves into various psychiatric disorders and sheds light on the societal misunderstanding and challenges faced by individuals dealing with these conditions.
The Plot and Themes
The series presents a narrative that often leans towards innocence and fantasy, but it doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh reality of fame, money, war, abuse, child maltreatment, and murder. Each episode explores these traumatic experiences that leave lasting scars on those who endure them. However, the show also focuses on the caregivers, families, and protectors of these patients, delving into a less common topic that highlights the dedication and love they provide, often without receiving the recognition they deserve from society.
The Protagonist and the Journey
The main character, Moon Woo-jin, not only takes care of his brother, who has autism, but also works as an assistant at the psychiatric center named Ok. Moon Woo-jin symbolizes the human struggle for wisdom, patience, and empathy. He embodies the painful vulnerability and need for support that many individuals experience. Through his journey, the series emphasizes the message of equality in human suffering and the importance of acknowledging the inner struggles of both ourselves and our loved ones.
Mental Health Reflection in the Pandemic
“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” becomes a reflection on mental health during the pandemic, a time when depression rates have significantly increased worldwide. For example, Japan, a country with high suicide rates, has even created a Ministry of Loneliness to address the issue. Similarly, in Chile, the number of psychological consultations has risen during the Covid-19 lockdown, making it one of the countries with the highest suicide rates in the past 15 years among OECD nations.
These statistics shed light on the urgent need to prioritize mental health. It is concerning that Chile still does not have a Mental Health Law, and according to the Mental Health Thermometer survey conducted by ACHS and the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, over 50% of respondents reported experiencing anxiety, depression, or feelings of sadness in recent months of 2020. This data highlights the ongoing mental health crisis within the country.
The Neglected Consequences of the Pandemic
While the focus has understandably been on developing a vaccine to prevent the spread of the coronavirus and minimize deaths, the collateral damage caused by the lockdown measures has been largely overlooked. The uncertainty, unemployment, depression, sadness, and increased suicide rates are all consequences of the pandemic that need to be addressed.
“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” serves as a wake-up call, reminding us that as a society, we are currently facing a humanitarian crisis. It emphasizes the need for unity and collective action to address mental health issues. The series encourages us to prioritize our mental well-being and support those around us who may be struggling.
Conclusion
The Korean drama series “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” offers a profound exploration of mental health and the challenges faced by individuals dealing with psychiatric disorders. Through its storytelling, the series sheds light on the importance of understanding and supporting those who are suffering. It serves as a timely reminder during the pandemic that mental health should not be neglected, and that we must come together as a society to address the ongoing crisis.