In this Top 5, we've gathered anime that portray depression in a sensitive way. Each of these works features characters who deal with the symptoms of the illness in different ways, showing their struggles and ways of facing the challenges. They are intense, moving, and sometimes difficult stories to watch, but they offer important reflection and deserve to be seen.
5. Orange
- Japanese title : オレンジ
- Release date : July 4, 2016
- Studio : Telecom Animation Film
In the story, we follow the journey of Takamiya Naho, a young woman who suddenly receives an enigmatic letter from herself, dated a decade in the future. The meticulous details of the letter accurately describe the events that would occur on Naho's day, including her meeting a new student, Naruse Kakeru. In addition to the account, the letter contains instructions and an urgent plea: save Kakeru.
4. Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso (Your Lie in April)
- Japanese title : Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso
- Release date : October 10, 2014
- Studio : A-1 Pictures
A piano prodigy becomes unable to hear his own music after the trauma of losing his mother and teacher. With that taken from him, Kousei Arima's life becomes monotonous and dull. One day, Kousei is introduced to a violinist named Kaori Miyazono. Despite the terrible first impression Kaori makes, her music completely captivates the boy. Free, powerful, and passionate, Kaori's audacious performance brings the light of life back to Kousei. United by music, can the sincere notes of the girl's violin make the boy play the piano again?
3. Aku no Hana (The Flowers of Evil)
- Japanese title : Aku no Hana
- Release date : April 5, 2013
- Studio : Zexcs
The plot follows Takao Kasuga, an enthusiast of challenging literary works, whose favorite book is "The Flowers of Evil" (Les Fleurs du Mal) by Charles Baudelaire, the title that lends its name to the series. In an impulsive moment after school, he decides to steal the gym clothes of Nanako Saeki, a classmate for whom he harbors feelings. However, Nakamura, the troublemaker of the class, catches him in the act. ( NOTE: Perhaps the biggest drawback of this anime is the animation, but the story is very good. So, if you can't watch it, read the manga! )
2. Koe no Katachi (A Silent Voice)
- Japanese title : Koe no Katachi 聲の形
- Release date : September 17, 2016
- Studio : Kyoto Animation
The narrative revolves around Shoya Ishida, a bully, and Shoko Nishimiya, a girl with a hearing impairment. The plot unfolds during sixth grade, when Shoko enters a new school. Initially, the children show curiosity in communicating with their new classmate, but gradually transform their differences into justifications for mistreating and isolating the young girl. Shoya leads the cruelest actions, however, years later, he finds himself in the position of victim, even at the hands of those who previously supported him.
1. NHK ni Youkoso! (Welcome to NHK!)
- Japanese title : N・H・Kにようこそ！
- Release date : July 10, 2016
- Studio : Gonzo
Tatsuhiro Satou, a 21-year-old unemployed college dropout, is convinced he's involved in a conspiracy and adopts the lifestyle of a hikikomori, remaining secluded in his room for years, supported by his parents. The turning point comes when Satou meets Misaki Nakahara, a mysterious girl who promises to help him overcome his hikikomori condition. Soon after, he discovers that his roommate is Yamazaki Kaoru, a former high school classmate. But even with his distinctive behavior, Yamazaki emerges as one of the most stable characters in the story, frequently sought out by Satou in times of need.
Therefore, if you decide to watch any anime with a theme of depression, I also recommend watching Yuru Camp△ (Laid-Back Camp) and Sora yori mo Tooi Basho (A Place Further Than The Universe), which will make your heart feel a little lighter.
Finally, which anime were missing from the list? Leave your comment.
Source: MyAnimeList
