How Marilyn Monroe’s Struggle with Mental Health Shaped Hollywood’s Perception of it

Introduction

Marilyn Monroe was, and still remains, one of the most iconic Hollywood stars of all time. Despite the glamour and success she achieved in her career, Marilyn Monroe’s personal life was turbulent, especially when it came to her mental health struggles. Her journey with mental illness had a significant impact on Hollywood’s perception of mental health, influencing the way mental health is portrayed in films today.

The Early Years

Marilyn Monroe was born in Los Angeles in 1926 and had a challenging childhood. Her mother was an unstable woman who suffered from mental health issues, and her father’s identity was unknown. Marilyn was in and out of foster homes, and it was during this unstable upbringing that she developed an anxiety disorder that persisted throughout her life.

Mental Health Struggles

As Marilyn’s fame grew, so did her mental health struggles. She had a history of depression, anxiety, and addiction, leading to her frequent hospitalizations and missed work days on film sets. Despite her personal challenges, Marilyn continued to achieve professional success, starring in some of Hollywood’s most iconic films, including ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ and ‘Some Like It Hot’.

Perception of Mental Health in Hollywood

During Marilyn Monroe’s era, mental health issues were commonly viewed as a sign of weakness and were associated with negative stereotypes. Many people believed that a person who suffered from mental health problems was unable to function in society or contribute to the workplace. The film industry was no exception, and Hollywood often portrayed characters with mental health problems as being dangerous or evil.

The Influence of Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe’s candidness about her struggles with mental health challenged the perception of mental illness in Hollywood. Her openness and willingness to talk about her experiences helped raise awareness of mental health issues and encouraged people to seek help. Her influence is undeniable, and the characters and storylines in contemporary films are way more nuanced and sympathetic towards characters with mental health problems.

Conclusion

Marilyn Monroe’s struggle with mental health had a profound impact on Hollywood’s perception of the issue. Although she was facing significant personal challenges, her openness and candidness helped shape a more empathetic and nuanced understanding of mental health issues. Today, filmmakers strive to portray characters with mental health problems in a more positive light, encouraging empathy and understanding towards those who suffer from mental health problems.