Disney movies have always been known for their captivating storylines, lovable characters, and catchy tunes. But did you know that these animated classics can also offer some valuable lessons for our mental health? From learning to face our fears to practicing self-care, here are some mental health tips we can learn from our favorite Disney movies.
1. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
In Frozen, Anna is faced with the daunting task of saving her kingdom from an eternal winter. But instead of trying to do it all on her own, she enlists the help of her friends, including the rugged iceman Kristoff and the charming snowman Olaf. This teaches us that it’s okay to ask for help when we need it, and that we’re stronger when we work together.
2. Embrace your emotions.
In Inside Out, we see the five emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust – living inside the head of a young girl named Riley. Through their struggles to navigate her complex emotional landscape, we learn that all emotions are valid and that it’s important to express them in healthy ways.
3. Face your fears.
In The Lion King, Simba must confront his fear of returning to his homeland and facing his past. By doing so, he not only gains a new sense of purpose but also finds inner peace and fulfillment. This teaches us that it’s important to face our fears head-on, even if it’s scary, because it can lead to personal growth and healing.
4. Practice self-care.
In Beauty and the Beast, Belle takes time for herself by indulging in her love of books and spending time in the castle’s beautiful gardens. This teaches us the importance of self-care and taking time to do things that bring us joy and peace.
5. Believe in yourself.
In Mulan, the titular character defies gender stereotypes and goes to war disguised as a man to protect her family and her country. Through her journey, she learns to believe in herself and her abilities, even when others doubt her. This teaches that believing in ourselves is key to achieving our goals and overcoming obstacles.
6. Surround yourself with supportive people.
In The Little Mermaid, Ariel has a tight-knit group of friends, including Flounder and Sebastian, who support her through her journey of becoming human. This teaches us the importance of surrounding ourselves with supportive and positive people who uplift and encourage us.
7. Find healthy ways to cope with stress.
In Moana, the titular character deals with the stress and pressure of being chosen to save her island by taking time to reflect and connect with her ancestors. This teaches us the importance of finding healthy ways to cope with stress, whether it’s through meditation, exercise, or spending time in nature.
Whether it’s asking for help, facing our fears, practicing self-care, or surrounding ourselves with supportive people, these lessons can help us navigate life’s challenges and improve our mental well-being. So the next time you watch a Disney classic, keep these tips in mind and see if you can spot any other valuable insights.