10 Must-Watch Movies About Chronic Illness

10 Must-Watch Movies About Chronic Illness

Living with a chronic illness can be incredibly challenging and isolating. Sometimes it can be difficult for people who don’t suffer from such illnesses to really understand just what it’s like to live day-to-day with them. One way to gain a better understanding is through watching movies that explore the realities of chronic illness. Here, we present our top 10 movies about chronic illness that are a must-watch for anyone wanting to increase their understanding and empathy.

1. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

This romantic comedy-drama follows the story of Pat, who has bipolar disorder, as he tries to get his life back together after a divorce and a stint in a mental health facility. Along the way, he meets Tiffany, who has her own mental health issues, and they begin to help each other through their struggles. The film portrays the daily challenges faced by people with mental health disorders and how important it is to have supportive people around them.

2. The Theory of Everything (2014)

This biographical drama tells the story of the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, who was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 21. The film portrays the difficulties faced by people with ALS, as well as the impact it has on their family and relationships. It also highlights the incredible work and achievements of Stephen Hawking, despite the disease.

3. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Based on the novel of the same name, this romantic drama follows the story of two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, both of whom are living with cancer. The film explores the physical, emotional, and psychological impacts of living with a terminal illness and the importance of finding hope and joy in life.

4. Cake (2014)

Jennifer Aniston stars in this powerful drama about a woman named Claire who is living with chronic pain after a car accident. The film explores the complexities of managing chronic pain, dealing with addiction and grief, and navigating the healthcare system.

5. My Left Foot (1989)

This biographical drama tells the story of Christy Brown, an Irishman with cerebral palsy who learned to write and paint with his left foot. The film won a number of awards for its portrayal of the challenges faced by people with cerebral palsy and the vital importance of creative self-expression.

6. The Sessions (2012)

This biographical drama tells the story of Mark, a man with polio who hires a sex surrogate to help him experience physical intimacy for the first time. The film sensitively explores the struggles faced by people with disabilities to experience intimacy and the emotional fulfilment it brings.

7. Five Feet Apart (2019)

This romantic drama portrays the challenges faced by teenagers with cystic fibrosis. Two teens, Stella and Will, fall in love but cannot be within six feet of each other due to the risks of cross-infection. The film covers the physical and emotional challenges of living with cystic fibrosis and the hope and resilience that can come from understanding and support.

8. Still Alice (2014)

This drama follows the story of Alice, a renowned linguistics professor who is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The film portrays the psychological and emotional impact of living with Alzheimer’s disease, both for the person with the illness and their family.

9. Philadelphia (1993)

This legal drama portrays the story of Andrew Beckett, a successful lawyer who is HIV-positive and is fired by his law firm for discrimination. The film highlights the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV/AIDS and the importance of fighting for justice and equality.

10. Inside Out (2015)

This 3D-animated film takes a unique approach to exploring the emotional struggles faced by children, but the lessons can apply to anyone coping with illness. The film follows the journey of an 11-year-old girl, Riley, as she struggles to cope with a move, family issues, and a range of emotions. The film highlights the importance of understanding and validating emotional experiences, and how important it is to have supportive people around you.

In conclusion, watching movies about chronic illness can be an eye-opening and empathetic experience. The films listed above offer a range of perspectives on living with different types of chronic illnesses, from mental health disorders to physical disabilities, and highlight the importance of understanding, empathy and support. By watching these movies, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the daily challenges faced by people living with chronic illness, and learn to be more compassionate and understanding.

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