On 9th of November, our neuroscience & art association EDGE had the honor of hosting an Berlin Science Week event that explored the connections between mental health and film. The “Mind the Movies” was a short film screening followed by an engaging panel discussion. Aiming to explore how the nexus of art and science can challenge societal stigma, spark meaningful conversations, and investigate representation of mental health in art, and art for mental health.
The Films: Stories of Mental Health
We showcased five impactful short films illuminating different faces of mental health. Here’s a closer look:
1. Analysis-Paralysis by Anete Melece
- Year: 2016
- Country: Switzerland
- Duration (2016), 9:00 minutes
Synopsis: A delightful and heartfelt animation that follows the overthinking protagonist, Anton, as he navigates his anxieties. This visually charming short reminds us of the beauty in embracing imperfection.
2. Rain by Johannes Stjärne Nilsson
- Year: 2014
- Country: Sweden
- Duration: 8:40 minutes
Synopsis: A poetic exploration of melancholy and even depression, Rain uses striking surreal visuals to depict how emotions can be both isolating and connective, exploring the universality of feeling.
3. Echter Mann (Real Man) by Vinsley
- Country: Germany
- Year: 2023
- Duration: 8:32 minutes
Synopsis: This powerful piece unpicks traditional ideas of masculinity and mental health, portraying a tender journey of vulnerability and self-acceptance in contemporary Germany.
4. GRIMMS MEISE by Corinne Le Hong
- Countries: Switzerland, Germany
- Year: 2012
- Duration: 15:00 minutes
Synopsis: A darkly humorous, unsettling, yet profound narrative about coping mechanisms, social alienation, and finding hope amidst chaos
5. Terminally Happy by Adina Istrate
- Countries: Norway, United Kingdom
- Year: 2015
- Duration: 13:30 minutes
Synopsis: “In order to remember, you first need to forget.” In a desolate, near-future world grappling with rising suicide rates, Dr. Louis W. experiments on himself with a groundbreaking opiate he has developed to end despair. This haunting and introspective film works with the ethical and emotional consequences of pharmaceutical salvation.
The Panel: Bridging the Gap Between Art, Science, and Society
Our panel discussion following the screenings featured a lineup of accomplished professionals.
- Panelist: Sergio Pérez Rosal, MD, MSc
With a focus on psychedelic-assisted therapies, Sergio shared how innovative treatments can reshape mental health care, challenging stigma with both science and empathy.
Instagram | LinkedIn - Panelist: Russ Hodge
A master communicator, Russ offered insights into how storytelling and humor can deconstruct complex scientific ideas, making them relatable and impactful for broader audiences. Good Science Writing Blog | MDC Profile - Panelist: Dr. Ivan Nenchev
Bringing a psychiatrist’s perspective, Dr. Nenchev highlighted the interplay of language, art, and therapy, and the role of creativity in recovery from severe mental illness. Website - Panelist: Vinsley
The director of Echter Mann shared his artistic journey, emphasizing how personal stories can resonate universally and spark crucial conversations about mental health. Website
Instagram - Moderator: Dr. Dimitra Mazaraki, PhD
Dr. Mazaraki’s background in neuroscience and dedication to public engagement made her the perfect bridge between the panelists and the audience. Her thoughtful questions steered a conversation that was as accessible as it was thought-provoking. LinkedIn
Reflections
Here are some of the highlights we feel arose from this interdisciplinary discussion among filmmakers, scientists, and attendees:
- Art has the power to make invisible struggles visible, increasing empathy and understanding amongst non-sufferers.
- Bridging scientific and medical research with public engagement can challenge stereotypes and reduce stigma.
- Collaboration across disciplines—such as neuroscience, psychiatry, and the arts—can create innovative pathways for mental health advocacy.
- Both art and science can serve as cathartic tools for the creator, allowing artists and scientists alike to explore, process, and heal from their own experiences. This dual role of creation—as an act of outreach and self-reflection— the deeply personal impact of their work.
The event is part of our association’s mission: to unite the public, the arts, and the scientific community, to deepen empathy and contribute to interdisciplinary understanding.
Explore More
For us, this was more than an event; it was a step towards building a community that embraces mental health awareness with creativity and compassion. A huge thanks to the organizers at Berlin Science Week for this opportunity, the EDGE event team Dr. Dimitra Mazaraki, Amelia Young, Tatiana Lupashina, Dr. Corinna Kühnapfel, Paula Guiomar Alarcón de Antón, and Shahryar Khorasani, and of course to our fantastic speakers and audience. Stay tuned or be part of our future initiatives by subscribing to our newsletter or by joining us as a member.
