Synopsis

Black People Don’t Get Depressed is born out of the frustrating and frightening experiences of neglect and violation experienced by the director and through the stories of ordinary and well-known people, who share their intimate journeys with managing their own mental health issues.

The journey follows an array of characters, including a musician, poet, artist, comedian, medical doctor and filmmaker as they make sense of their own personal journeys with mental difficulties through reflection, creativity, confrontation and seeking professional help. By probing an issue that is neglected and often taboo, the hope is that they pave a brave new way forward that inspires an attitude change in our communities and gives people hope.

Through different and often difficult personal reflections the film investigates limited access to mental health services and the destructive ripple effects of neglecting mental health.
The 52-minute version will be available soon.

Awards

African Film Festival New York World Premiere
Zanzibar International Film Festival Jury
Film Africa London
Shout Mental Health Festival, London
Lesotho International Film Festival Best International Documentary
Joburg Film Festival, Johannesburg