Yahoo News Bodyguard finale praised for handling of mental health
Warning! This article is full of spoilery kompromat about the finale of Bodyguard.
It's the end of a short yet thrilling era: Bodyguard has finished. But while there's much to unpick about last night's (September 23) record-breaking finale, there are several things to celebrate, too.
Following an extended and (quite literally) breathtaking final episode, Bodyguard concluded with an important message about mental health and the importance of speaking out.
Related: Bodyguard episode 6 explained: Julia's killer revealed and more of the finale's big reveals
After weeks of performing the role of protector, consummate(ish) professional and hero, PS David Budd (Richard Madden) finally acknowledged his struggle with PTSD and asked for help from the force's occupational therapist.
"Sometimes asking for help is the bravest move you can make," the BBC told followers on Twitter.
Sometimes asking for help is the bravest move you can make. 💚 #Bodyguard pic.twitter.com/PYt8eqslUv
- BBC One (@BBCOne) September 23, 2018
Viewers of the BBC drama congratulated the show for raising awareness of men's mental health and for helping to break down the stigma of mental illness, calling the move "brilliant".
One fan praised the series for its "incredible portrayal of men's mental health and the internal stigma we often place upon ourselves".
Another agreed: "I'm honestly so pleased they showed Budd getting help on screen unlike other shows that downplay mental health issues/suicide attempts for the sake of action/men being tough."
The #bodyguard finale was so good I’m honestly so pleased they showed Budd getting help on screen unlike other shows that downplay mental health issues/suicide attempts for the sake of action/men being tough. Hopefully it will prove that getting help isn’t a sign of weakness.
- megan 🏳️🌈 (@jenlocked221b) September 23, 2018
The final episode of #Bodyguard taught us not to underestimate women and not to overestimate men’s mental health while simultaneously making me feel like I either needed a stiff drink or a hug for 75 minutes straight. I can’t remember a show this gripping in my lifetime.
- Jonathan Blake (@imjonathanblake) September 23, 2018
Well #Bodyguard was exceptionally good tv and ending it with a nod to men's mental health was a brilliant touch.
- Adam Keyworth (@adamkeyworth) September 23, 2018
Men’s mental health, PTSD, Terrorism and Government Conspiracies to name a few. You’ll do well to find a series handle such topics as brilliantly as #Bodyguard did. Epic finale to a grippingly tense drama. Well played @BBC 👌🏻
- Ben Taylor (@BenNebTaylor) September 23, 2018
“I need some help” #Bodyguard @_richardmadden literally one of the most powerful statements on telly. #mentalhealth an incredibly important scene. Brilliant series 🙌
- Vicky Whelan (@vixfrets) September 23, 2018
The #BodyGuard is an incredible portrayal of men’s mental health and the internal stigma we often place upon ourselves. The relief I felt with #DavidBudd reuniting with his family produced an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the loved ones in my life and how good it....
- Adam Joel Kinnear (@AdamJoelKinnear) September 24, 2018
Really impressed with the BBC's handling of Budd's mental health storyline within #Bodyguard. So important that people seek help and begin the journey to recovery. Veterans can call @CombatStress 24-hr helpline 0800 138 1619.
- Nicola Hudson (@NicolaHudsonCS) September 23, 2018
Of course, Bodyguard is not without its critics – particularly over its devastating final twist – but if the struggles of David Budd can resonate with just one person, bring on series two.
And three, and four.
We would encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. Organisations who can offer support include Samaritans on 116 123 (www.samaritans.org) or Mind on 0300 123 3393 (www.mind.org.uk).
Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
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