World Mental Health Day: Exploring Mental Health Through Film

At the Burdett Trust for Nursing, we are proud to support projects that amplify lived experiences, explore innovative approaches to care and highlight the essential role of nurses in supporting mental health. Through the Film Hub, a collection of powerful films is helping to spark conversations, share learning and shine a light on issues that can too often remain unseen.

This World Mental Health Day, we invite you to explore four films that reflect different perspectives on mental health, resilience and compassionate support.

Ella and Abi

Based on nurses’ stories, the film reflects the way in which nurses behave and helps us talk about what supportive workplace cultures look like.

Ella & Abi shares the experiences of two young women navigating mental health challenges. Their stories offer a moving insight into the importance of being heard, understood and supported, while highlighting the value of compassion and connection in promoting wellbeing.

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NEXUS

A film raising awareness of the impact of lockdown on young people’s mental health.

The film tells the story of a young man’s struggles with bulimia nervosa during lockdown. Through a combination of physical detachment from his friends and living on the wrong side of the digital divide, he falls into a downward spiral.

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Invisible

This poignant film raises awareness of new fathers’ mental health and explores the factors impacting the emotional wellbeing of fathers following the arrival of a new baby.

Many mental health challenges are not immediately visible to others. Invisible encourages viewers to look beyond appearances and develop a greater understanding of the experiences that often go unseen. By bringing hidden struggles into the open, the film helps to foster empathy and challenge stigma.

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No Yeah Buts

A film by nurses for nurses exploring the stress, anxiety and fatigue they experience and the ways in which unhealthy coping mechanisms can be replaced by healthy ones.

No Yeah Buts tackles the assumptions and barriers that can prevent people from seeking help or speaking openly about their mental health. Through honest conversations and personal experiences, the film encourages greater understanding and highlights the importance of listening without judgement.

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Using Film to Start Conversations

Stories have the power to change perceptions, build understanding and inspire action. These films demonstrate how creative approaches can help raise awareness of mental health, encourage meaningful dialogue and support more compassionate care.

This World Mental Health Day, we celebrate the nurses, midwives, health visitors and their colleagues helping more people feel heard, supported and able to access the care they need.

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