The following post contains minor spoilers for the book and film adaptation of Turtles All the Way Down.
The film adaptation of Turtles All the Way Down, based on the novel by John Green, presents a heartfelt and nuanced exploration of mental health, specifically obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). As a therapist, watching Aza Holmes’ journey unfold on screen was a powerful experience, revealing the challenges and depth of living with a mental illness often misunderstood and trivialized. Here’s a deeper look at the film’s portrayal of OCD and some reflections on what it gets right about mental health and recovery.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Beyond Stereotypes
From the beginning, Turtles All the Way Down doesn’t shy away from portraying the complexity of OCD. For many, OCD is reduced to quirky behaviors like excessive hand-washing or a need for order. Yet, for Aza, her intrusive thoughts spiral into what she describes as a “thought spiral,” a vortex of worry that pulls her down and consumes her focus, rationality, and freedom.
The film’s portrayal of these thoughts and compulsions is refreshingly accurate. We see how OCD isn’t about “perfectionism” but rather an overwhelming need to alleviate the distress caused by intrusive, distressing thoughts. This painful process can create significant disruptions in daily life, relationships, and personal identity. As a therapist, I appreciated that the film brought these intricacies to light in a way that doesn’t minimize Aza’s suffering but instead treats it with gravity and compassion.
The Role of Relationships in Mental Health
The film also sheds light on the importance and challenges of relationships for someone experiencing mental health struggles. Aza’s relationship with her friend Daisy is marked by moments of connection and strain. The story illustrates how her OCD impacts their friendship and how Daisy struggles to understand and support Aza, sometimes feeling sidelined by Aza’s internal battle.
As therapists, we often remind clients of the power of healthy relationships in the healing process. Aza’s story illustrates the delicate balance between receiving support and maintaining independence while navigating the complexities of mental illness. Her relationships highlight how essential it is for friends and loved ones to practice patience and empathy, even if they don’t fully understand what someone with OCD is going through.
Self-Compassion in the Journey to Recovery
Perhaps one of the film’s most poignant messages is the idea that healing doesn’t necessarily mean “fixing” oneself. Throughout her journey, Aza grapples with an intense desire to “escape” from her mind and its painful spirals. However, she begins to learn to coexist with her thoughts rather than fighting against them constantly. This perspective is essential in therapy: the journey is not just about finding ways to eradicate one’s symptoms but about learning to coexist with them and finding value in oneself despite them.
Acceptance doesn’t mean giving in to the disorder but rather recognizing it as part of the current reality and choosing to engage with life in meaningful ways nonetheless. This compassionate approach to mental health is an essential part of therapeutic work, encouraging individuals to embrace themselves even when their challenges feel overwhelming.
The Power of Storytelling in Normalizing Mental Health Conversations
“Turtles All the Way Down” stands out as a narrative that encourages conversations about mental health without romanticizing or demonizing it. This open portrayal fosters awareness, empathy, and understanding in a way that few films achieve. As a therapist, I see storytelling as an invaluable bridge for clients, family members, and even society to better understand the often-hidden struggles of mental illness.
This film may resonate deeply with individuals who have OCD, anxiety, or any mental health condition that makes them feel isolated or misunderstood. It offers a reminder that they are not alone and that their experience is both real and valid.
Closing Thoughts: A Window into Compassionate Mental Health Representation
“Turtles All the Way Down” is a significant step toward a more empathetic and genuine portrayal of mental illness on screen. It highlights that while mental health issues can feel consuming, healing is often about building a relationship with one’s mind. This relationship takes time, effort, and compassion—not only from others but, most importantly, from oneself.
For therapists and mental health advocates, the film is a valuable tool for sparking discussions, normalizing struggles, and reminding those affected that their experience is valid and that help, healing, and hope are always within reach
