Small Insights I get from K-drama Fix You; Psychological Perspective
Are you a fan of Korean dramas? If so, then you might want to check it out.
"Fix You".
This drama series is a medical-themed drama that tackles the story of a psychiatrist who tries to help his patients overcome their emotional and psychological issues.
The story revolves around the life of Lee Si-Joon, a psychiatrist known for his unconventional methods of treating his patients. He believes that emotions can be cured just like any physical illness. However, he struggles with his emotional baggage as he tries to help his patients.
One of his patients is Han Woo Joo, a musical actress who suffers from panic attacks. Si-Joon tries to help her overcome her fears and anxiety, but he gets emotionally attached to her. As he tries to help her, he also tries to confront his own issues and past traumas.
Characters
The characters in "Fix You" are well-developed and relatable. Lee Si-Joon, played by Jung Jae Young, is a complex character who struggles with his own emotional issues. Moreover, he is mature, patient, understanding, and has an out-of-the-box mindset.
Han Woo Joo, played by Tae In Ho, is a talented actress who is haunted by her past. Her character is generous, easily gets mad, and always feels outcasted by society, especially by her mother due to her past traumatic experiences which were left alone, and abandoned.
Themes
"Fix You" tackles various themes such as mental health, trauma, and healing. It shows how mental illnesses can affect an individual's life and how seeking help can make a huge difference. It also illustrates how human beings can heal from their past traumas and find hope for the future.
What we learn from the drama ...
In this part, I will share things that I and someone have discussed before on our monthly agenda.
The interesting part is, how does the psychiatrist solve it?
In this case, I believe that the writer was inspired by the technique that is developed by Moreno, psychodrama, to solve the mental issues of each patient.
So, according to Moreno (1921), Psychodrama is an action method, often used as a psychotherapy, in which clients use spontaneous dramatization, role-playing, and dramatic self-presentation to investigate and gain insight into their lives.
Developed by Jacob L. Moreno and his wife Zerka Toeman Moreno, psychodrama includes elements of theatre, often conducted on a stage, or a space that serves as a staging area, where props can be used.
A psychodrama therapy group, under the direction of a licensed psychodramatist, reenacts real-life, past situations (or inner mental processes), acting them out in the present time.
Participants then have the opportunity to evaluate their behaviour, reflect on how the past incident is getting played out in the present and more deeply understand particular situations in their lives.
Psychodrama offers a creative way for an individual or group to explore and solve personal problems. It may be used in a variety of clinical and community-based settings in which other group members (audience) are invited to become therapeutic agents (stand-ins) to populate the scene of one client. (from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychodrama)
For most Indonesians, going to a psychiatrist is something that's shameful and probably should be avoided in life as long as they could. With the stigma that is strongly attached to mental disorders and their profession, including psychiatrists, it is rather demanding to make folks aware of going to a psychiatrist even though they obviously have a mental illness.
Even though awareness of the necessity to consult a psychiatrist is increased, this condition is only found in certain communities. Some still view mental illness as something that is good on its own and it is adequate just to remain and surrender.
If there is a challenge, there is a solution.
So, now...
What treatment does the psychiatrist provide to the patient at the first counselling session?
Dr Andri briefly states that at least there are five things psychiatrists do for the patients who come to the first session.
Again, mental illness affects millions of individuals worldwide, and it's crucial to recognise that it can also impact our friends and loved ones. When someone close to us is struggling with mental health issues, it is pivotal to provide them support, understanding, and compassion. As close relatives, we play a significant role in assisting our friends through their mental health challenges.
Meanwhile, we believe that some actions can be done such as educating ourselves, showing empathy and support, encouraging professional help, and staying connected, one of the most needed is something that's simpler than we expected which is offering our ear and listening to them.
Why?
Offering a listening ear to someone with mental illness is very pleasant because...
it validates their experiences and emotions, providing a safe space for them to express themselves. It reduces stigma by showing understanding and acceptance, building trust in the relationship. Actively listening helps identify warning signs and allows individuals to obtain clarity and perspective on their struggles. It encourages self-expression, empowering one to communicate their needs and seek support.
Overall, listening plays a vital role in providing emotional support, fostering open conversations, and contributing to their well-being.
So, start from now on please be there and listen to your partner, your child, your siblings, your friends or those who are close to you.
Closing...
I guess I have been talking too much and here we are on the last section, closing.
Before I close this article, I would like to share some of the memorable quotes that I got from the drama. I hope these quotes may cheer you up and brighten your day!
Be mindful and grateful for everything that you have. Thank you and have a great day.
Cheerio~
--------------
Media, K. C. (2012, February 8). Kalau ke Psikiater Diapain Sih? Halaman all - Kompas.com. KOMPAS.com.
Riva, M., Grassi, L., & Belingheri, M. (2020). Jacob L. Moreno and psychodrama – psychiatry in history. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 217(1), 369-369. doi:10.1192/bjp.2020.65
