The film Silver Linings Playbook is nominated for eight Academy Awards in 2013, and it’s leading lady, Jennifer Lawrence, already took home trophies at the Golden Globes and the SAG Awards for her performance. The film is also the first to earn nods in all four acting categories since Reds and the first "Big Five" nominee -- Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director, Best Writing -- since Million Dollar Baby.
The film is also getting attention from mental health professionals for Bradley Cooper’s honest portrayal of a man struggling with bipolar disorder. From hospitalization and counseling to medications and family dynamics, the critically-acclaimed movie explores issues that are rarely seen in such detail on the big screen.
Cooper’s character is a Philadelphia-based high school teacher who suffers a breakdown when he finds out his wife is cheating. His violent outburst earns him eight months in a residential facility and follows his attempt to return to normal life. As he moves into his parents’ attic, you see his struggles to stay positive and remain in control even during manic episodes.
The comments of friends and neighbors show some of the misconceptions about mental illness, and it is easy for an outsider to see how his loving-but-misguided parents only make his issues worse. Cooper’s character is often his own worst enemy, refusing to take his medication, fixating on his estranged wife despite a restraining order and indulging in obsessive behaviors instead of following his therapist’s advice to “make a plan.”
Hollywood rarely gets it completely right when tackling real-life issues, but they should be applauded for helping to start a conversation about bipolar disorder. At any given time 2.6 percent of the US population suffers from bipolar disorder and yet less than half receive treatment for the issue. Any media attention that can inspire greater understanding and lead to more people seeking help is a good thing.
If you or someone you love needs treatment for addiction and a co-occurring mental health issue such as bipolar disorder, call The Canyon at the toll-free number on our homepage. We are here 24 hours a day to answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.
