Mental Health stigma: Why watching cartoons is often seen as immature

ProfileImg
15 Jul '24
3 min read


image

As a passionate believer of Mental health and a cartoon lover, I’ve often found myself questioning the fact that why watching cartoon is perceived as an immaturity, especially when it comes to adults. This surrounding stigma not only stops people from enjoying things they like but also making a misconception about the Mental health.

 

Misconception and stereotypes

The stigma of adult watching cartoons comes from the outdated stereotypes that cartoons is an entertainment only for the children. Cartoons, however, has evolved over the years. Nowadays cartoons often comes with the more complex storyline, characters and themes which resonate with the adults. Still this perception continues that enjoying the animated shows is a sign of immaturity or still being a kid.

 

Psychological benefits of cartoons

Despite these beliefs, cartoons do make some psychological impact on adults. The cartoons offer escapism, a temporary relief from the stresses of the daily life. The vibrant visuals, theme and the humorous storyline can reduce the anxiety level and leads to producing more happy hormones like oxytocin, dopamine and also cartoons can stimulate creativity, critical thinkings and inspire them through their storyline and characters.

 

Nostalgia and Emotional comfort

For many adults, cartoons evoke nostalgia, reminding them to cherish those memorable childhood memories. These nostalgias not only evoke the past but also helps to relive their childhood by watching their favorite characters from the cartoons. As an adult myself, watching cartoons takes me back to those precious stress-free days, vibe and everything of my life. Nostalgia has been shown improve mood and enhance the whole wellbeing. Yet it is still projected as “childish” sentimentality when it comes to watching cartoons.

 

Challenging the Status Quo

It’s time to challenge the status quo and rethink about the attitude towards adult enjoying the cartoons. Instead of seeing it as immaturity, we should recognize it real form of entertainment and selfcare. Like adults engage themselves in the taste of music, movies and book, their preference in cartoons should be respected without any judgements.

 

Bridging generational Gaps

The cartoons work as bridge between generations, allowing the different generation to bond over. It is also providing the parents and children to bond over. By embracing cartoons as a shared interest across generation, we can break down these generation barriers.

 

Advocating for Acceptance

As an advocate for mental health and diverse form of entertainment, it’s high time that we challenge this stereotypes and advocate for acceptance. Let’s celebrate the therapeutic value of cartoons in promoting mental well-being and creativity. By adopting positive attitude towards adults enjoying cartoons, we can create a culture that value the personal preferences and embraces the diverse ways people finds joy and relaxation

 

In conclusion, watching cartoons as an adult is not about immaturity rather it’s about embracing the diverse form of entertainment which promotes mental health, creativity and nostalgia. Let’s challenge these stereotypes, celebrate the individual preferences and promote the culture of acceptance and understanding also remember “no matter how old we all will be but never leave behind that little kid in you”.

 

 

Category:Mental Health



ProfileImg

Written by Lydia M G