Today’s Media Monday is on The Silver Linings Playbook starring Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper. The story begins as Pat Solatano (Bradley Cooper) is discharged from a mental health institution, and moves back in with his parents to comply with the release conditions. Pat was diagnosed with Bipolar disorder, and although he is prescribed medication (which he does not take because of the way it makes him feel) and has mandatory therapy sessions, Pat feels like he can manage on the outside solely by healthy living and looking for the “silver linings” in his life.
“This is what I believe to be true. You have to do everything you can to stay positive, and if you can you have a shot at a silver lining.”
The Silver Linings Playbook covers a scene where Pat and Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence) talk about the effects their medication, and we see a small glimpse into the life of one with a mental illness.
There is this one scene in the movie where he hears a song that triggers some very angry emotions. He begins to throw a magazine rack across the floor. In the moment that he snaps out of his rage, and realizes what he is done, you can see in his eyes that he truly does not want to be that way. He feels like a prisoner in his own mind.
2% of people struggle with Bipolar Disorder
This movie stands as a sign of hope for those who struggle with bipolar and OCD. It helps us understand this disorder and shows those who have these disorders that there is a way to find your own silver lining. Take it one day at a time, and do your best.
“I am my best self today… and I think that is a good thing.”
~Bradley Cooper
Defying Shadows 