In this Top 5, we've gathered anime that portray depression sensitively. Each of these works features characters who deal with the symptoms of the illness in different ways, demonstrating their struggles and ways of overcoming challenges. These are intense, emotional, and sometimes difficult-to-watch stories, but they offer important reflection and are worth watching.
5. Orange
- Japanese title : オレンジ
- Release Date : July 4, 2016
- Studio : Telecom Animation Film
The plot follows the journey of Takamiya Naho, a young woman who suddenly receives an enigmatic letter from herself, dated a decade in the future. The letter's meticulous details accurately describe the events that would occur on Naho's day, including her encounter with a new student, Naruse Kakeru. In addition to these accounts, 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 prodigious pianist becomes unable to hear his own music after the trauma of losing his mother and teacher. With that torn from him, Kousei Arima's life becomes dull and dull. One day, Kousei is introduced to a violinist named Kaori Miyazono. Despite Kaori's poor first impression, her music completely enchants him. Free, powerful, and passionate, Kaori's bold performance brings Kousei back to the light of life. Brought together by music, can the girl's heartfelt violin notes inspire him to 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 Charles Baudelaire's "The Flowers of Evil" (Les Fleurs du Mal), 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, the classmate he has feelings for. However, Nakamura, the troublemaker in class, catches him red-handed. ( Note: Perhaps the biggest downside 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 (The Voice of the Silence)
- Japanese title : Koe no Katachi 聲の形
- Release Date : September 17, 2016
- Studio : Kyoto Animation
The story revolves around Shoya Ishida, a bully, and Shoko Nishimiya, a hearing-impaired girl. The plot unfolds during their sixth grade year, when Shoko enters a new school. Initially, the children show curiosity in communicating with their new classmate, but gradually they turn their differences into justification for mistreating and isolating the young girl. Shoya leads the cruelest actions, but years later, he finds himself in the position of victim, even by 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, 2020
- Studio : Gonzo
Tatsuhiro Satou, a 21-year-old unemployed college dropout, is convinced he's involved in a conspiracy and adopts the hikikomori lifestyle, remaining secluded in his room for years, supported by his parents. A turning point occurs when Satou meets Misaki Nakahara, a mysterious girl who promises to help him overcome his hikikomori status. Soon after, he discovers that his roommate is Yamazaki Kaoru, a former high school classmate. But despite his distinctive behavior, Yamazaki emerges as one of the most stable characters in the story, often sought out by Satou in times of need.
Therefore, if you decide to watch any anime that has 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 animes were missing from the list? Leave your comment.
Source: MyAnimeList
