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DVD, 2009, 76 minutes, Grade 7-Adult
Actor Joe Pantoliano made this documentary as part of his fight against the stigma and shame of mental/brain disease. This DVD sheds light on what nearly 100 million Americans suffer in isolation through candid often humorous discussions with Pantoliano and his family on their struggle with his own clinical depression. Also included are the stories of six other people from all walks of life, all affected differently by mental illness, including a brain surgeon and three high school students. Each talks about the struggles before they were diagnosed, including attempts at self-medication and other destructive behavior. The viewer also learns about the hope and encouragement they discover when managing their own recovery and realizing they are not alone.