12 Anime that Address Mental Health in a Sensitive Way

While May can be a month filled with joyous celebrations, blooming flowers, and the warmth of spring, it also serves as an important time for introspection and self-evaluation regarding our mental and emotional states. As we transition from the chill of winter to the vibrant life of spring, it is essential to acknowledge that alongside the festivities, many of us may encounter several feelings that warrant attention and care. This acknowledgement is particularly important in May, which is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, promoting education on emotional well-being, and encouraging open conversations about mental health struggles.

There are numerous anime series and films that raise awareness about mental and emotional well-being, showcasing the complexities of human emotions and the struggles individuals face. These narratives often delve into themes such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and the importance of seeking help, making them not only entertaining but also profoundly impactful. This list will highlight TWELVE anime (in no particular order) that sensitively address this important issue, providing viewers with both insight and empathy towards mental health challenges. So, if you're ready, take a look at these incredible anime that not only entertain but also foster a deeper understanding of mental and emotional well-being.

Aharen-san wa Hakarenai (2022)

Genre: Comedy, Romance

Length: 2 seasons, 20 episodes currently (still airing)

Now that he has started high school, Shota Raido thinks he can finally have a great year as long as he remembers to be friendly and not let his tall stature intimate people. However, as he attempts to interact with his new classmates, one shy classmate catches his attention. In his goal to have a better year, he decides to form a connection with the small and quiet Reina Aharen. At first, Aharen remains quiet and reserved. But as he persists in his attempts to communicate, he soon discovers that Aharen's quiet demeanor is not merely a personality trait; rather, it stems from her struggles with personal space and social anxiety. This series is not just a light-hearted comedy; it serves as a wonderful exploration of how social anxiety and communication barriers can seriously impact an individual's ability to form meaningful relationships, and deteriorate one's self confidence. As the series unfold, we are enlightened to the fact that with kindness and persistence, even the most introverted individuals can find their voices and connect with others.

Noragami (2014)

Genre: Action, Supernatural

Length: 2 seasons, 25 episodes total

Set in a world where deities exist from a single wish, these gods have the ability to change innocent souls that have died into powerful weapons called regalia. Among these deities, one stands out for his tragic circumstances—the Yato God. Unlike his more fortunate god-like peers, Yato finds himself without a shrine. This absence of devotion leaves him in a state of obscurity as he struggles to gain recognition and the reverence he desires. His days are filled with a sense of longing and disappointment, as he wanders the world, hoping for a miracle. However, fate takes an unexpected turn when a girl named Hiyori crosses paths with Yato. In a moment of selflessness, she intervenes to save him from an accident--an act that not only alters the course of her own life, but also breathes new hope into Yato's existence. His luck begins to shift, as her unwavering belief in him provides the foundation he desperately needs to rise from the ashes of his obscurity.

My Roommate is a Cat (2019)

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Slice-of-Life

Length: 1 season, 10 episodes total

One of my absolute favorite series is My Roommate is a Cat. While the series is mostly light-hearted and sweet, after learning the main characters intricately developed backstories, we come to understand the role that both characters play in each others' lives. My Roommate is a Cat tells the story of Subaru, a young man who lost his parents in a tragic accident that left him both emotionally scarred and isolated. Now living alone, he continues to write manga. As a manga artist, Subaru immerses himself in his work, often using his own experiences as a source of creativity. In his struggle to think of something new to write about, he takes in a stray cat, seeking her companionship, and as a potential source of inspiration. Little does he know that this seemingly simple act of kindness will change his whole life in ways he never anticipated. Ultimately, My Roommate is a Cat is a touching exploration of how two seemingly different beings can come together to support each other, illustrating that sometimes, the most unexpected relationships can lead to the greatest changes in our lives.

Recovery of an MMO Junkie (2017)

Genre: Comedy, Romance

Length: 1 season, 10 episodes total

After leaving her job, 30 year old Moriko abandons all societal expectations, and becomes a recluse as she delves into the world of an online MMO game: Fruits de Mer. In the game, she becomes someone else, a handsome male hero. Within this digital realm, Moriko finds a sense of freedom and escape from the challenges of her everyday life. Through her journey in Fruits de Mer, Moriko begins to explore the complexities of her own emotions and relationships, forging connections with other players who, like her, are seeking refuge from their own realities. As she navigates quests and builds alliances within the game, Moriko gradually learns valuable lessons about friendship, acceptance, and the importance of confronting her past, ultimately leading her toward a path of self-discovery and recovery.

WataMote (2013)

Genre: Comedy

Length: 1 season, 12 episodes total

Tomoko Kuroki, the protagonist of the series, enters her first year of high school with a unique perspective shaped by her extensive experience with video games and anime. Having spent countless hours immersed in these virtual worlds, she believes she has honed the necessary social skills and strategies to navigate the complexities of high school life. However, upon stepping into the real world, Tomoko quickly discovers that the interactions she anticipated are far more challenging than she ever imagined. Despite her preparations, her shyness and social anxiety become obstacles that hinder her ability to connect with those around her. Throughout the series, we witness Tomoko's internal struggles as she grapples with her self-image and the overwhelming pressure to fit in. Ultimately, WataMote is not just a comedy; it is an illustration of the trials and tribulations of adolescence, particularly for those who feel like outsiders.

A Whisker Away (2020)

Genre: Fantasy, Drama, Romance

Length: Film, 1 hr 44 min

A Whisker Away is a captivating animated film that explores the emotional journey of a young girl named Miyo Sasaki, who finds herself grappling with the complexities of her new home life. As she navigates the challenges of living with her stepmother and father, Miyo feels increasingly isolated and misunderstood, leading her to seek solace in an extraordinary escape. The film beautifully portrays her struggles with identity and belonging, which are common themes in the lives of many adolescents. In her quest for comfort and companionship, Miyo discovers a magical mask that allows her to transform into a cat. This transformation is not simply whimsical plot device; it serves as a profound metaphor for her desire to break free from the constraints of her human life and the emotional turmoil she experiences. Once transformed, Miyo seeks out the one person who brings her genuine happiness: her classmate, Hinode. Overall, A Whisker Away is not just a tale of magical transformation; it is a deep exploration of the struggles faced by a young girl as she learns to embrace her identity, confront her fears, and ultimately find her place in a world that often feels overwhelming.

The Dangers in My Heart (2023)

Genre: Drama, Romance

Length: 2 seasons, 25 episodes total

The Dangers in My Heart is sure to surprise anyone who has never watched this beautifully crafted series, which artfully blends elements of psychological drama with unexpected moments of introspection and character development. In the beginning, we are introduced to Kyotaro Ichikawa, a very troubled middle schooler whose mind is plagued by dark and unsettling thoughts, particularly regarding fantasies he has about killing his classmates, who he feels look down upon him. Among those classmates that he harbors deep-seated resentment towards is Anna Yamada—a strikingly beautiful, exceptionally talented, and widely popular girl at their school, who seems to embody everything Ichikawa feels he lacks. As the story unfolds, we witness Ichikawa's initial plans to attack, which are fueled by feelings of isolation and alienation. However, as he begins to observe Yamada more closely, he discovers a different side to her that he had previously overlooked. This revelation serves as a turning point in the story, leading him to confront not only his own feelings of inadequacy but also the complexities of human relationships.

I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (2018)

Genre: Drama, Romance

Length: Film, 1 hr 48 min

I Want to Eat Your Pancreas may sound like a strange anime based on the name alone; however, the plot is nothing short of breathtaking. It follows the journey of two high school students, the introverted and somewhat aloof male protagonist, and the vivacious and outgoing female lead, who is secretly suffering from a terminal illness. This film is told through the eyes of the male protagonist, who initially seems detached from the world around him. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Sakura Yamauchi, the spirited girl who is well-liked by her peers, yet harbors a life-threatening condition. As she confides in him about her illness, their relationship begins to blossom in ways that neither of them anticipated. Through Sakura's vibrant personality and her fearless approach to living with her illness, she encourages the protagonist to step out of his shell and confront his own emotions. Overall, I Want to Eat Your Pancreas is a remarkable film that challenges us to reflect on the nature of life and the bonds we create.

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2006)

Genre: Comedy, Mystery, Sci-Fi

Length: 2 seasons, 28 episodes total

This iconic series introduces viewers to Haruhi Suzumiya, a high school girl who unknowingly possesses the extraordinary ability to alter reality itself. Haruhi is not your typical high school student; she is a charismatic and unpredictable force of nature, whose whims and desires shape the lives of those around her in profound ways. The story unfolds through the eyes of Kyon, a high school student who becomes entangled in Haruhi's bizarre world. Kyon is initially skeptical of Haruhi's eccentricities, but soon finds himself drawn into her quest for excitement and adventure. He is reluctantly pulled into the formation of the SOS Brigade, a club dedicated to investigating supernatural occurrences. Through her interactions with her friends, the series explores deep themes of loneliness, and the quest for meaning. The characters’ emotional journeys are complex, often highlighting the importance of connection and the significant impact of mental health on one's perception of reality. Overall, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is much more than just a typical anime; it is a thought-provoking exploration of human emotions, relationships, and the complexities of the human psyche.

Orange (2016)

Genre: Romance, Drama, Sci-Fi

Length: 1 season, 13 episodes total

This anime intricately weaves together themes of regret, longing, and the desire to alter a tragic future that looms ominously over the characters' lives. Orange is an anime that delves deeply into the complexities of human relationships and the profound impact of choices made in the past. The plot centers around a group of friends, and our main protagonist, Naho Takamiya, who all discover a way that allows them to see their potential future. This revelation sparks a journey filled with emotional turmoil as they grapple with their regrets and the weight of their decisions. This series emphasizes the importance of friendship and unwavering support as these friends confront their present, after learning of what might come to pass if they do not intervene. Ultimately, this beautiful series serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness, the need for open conversations about emotional well-being, and the strength found in community support.

Romantic Killer (2022)

Genre: Comedy, Romance, Drama

Length: 1 season, 12 episodes total

Anzu Hoshino is a huge gamer, and because of this, she has no romance in her life. Soon enough, she becomes forced into a trial romance simulation, in which three boys enter her life in order for her to fall in love. While at first opposed, she learns much about them. Each episode delves deeper into their lives, revealing their vulnerabilities and the emotional baggage they carry. Among these characters, one boy stands out with a particularly unsettling past that introduces viewers to his own personal mental health struggle. His backstory is gradually unveiled, showcasing how it shapes his actions and interactions with Anzu, ultimately leading to pivotal moments that challenge her understanding of love. As the season progresses, Anzu learns to embrace her feelings and the importance of connection, making Romantic Killer not just a story about romance, but also one about friendship, mental and emotional growth, and the courage to open one's heart.

Death Parade (2015)

Genre: Drama, Psychological

Length: 1 season, 12 episodes total

This wonderfully unique series is a another thought-provoking exploration of life, death, and the human psyche. Death Parade is not just a simple story; it delves deep into the complexities of human emotions and the moral dilemmas that arise from our choices. The setting of the series is a mysterious bar known as Quindecim, where the deceased are brought to confront their past in a series of games that reveal their true selves. Each game serves as a metaphorical reflection of their lives, forcing them to face their regrets, desires, and the consequences of their actions. Through their interactions with the enigmatic bartender Decim and his assistant, Chiyuki, viewers witness the weight of their past decisions. Each episode is crafted with care, presenting a new pair of souls who must compete against each other in games that test not only their skills but also their moral integrity. Ultimately, Death Parade is more than just a tale of the afterlife; it challenges viewers to confront their own mortality and consider the legacy they leave behind. The series invites us to ponder our own choices and the impact they have on our happiness and the happiness of others.

Well, there you have it! While I realize that many of the suggested anime are romance based, each series or film does tackle mental health in a sensitive way and promotes the overall well-being of the characters in the best way. So, now that you know what I suggest, which ones will you watch? Let me know in the comments below!