Mental Health Support Through Novels

In Sanchez’s novel I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter, the immigrant experience is portrayed through the lens of a growing teenage girl.  Though Julia’s perspective often provides a unique commentary on relevant, modern-day topics, her untrustworthy narration can make the story difficult to digest.  Due to Julia’s depression and anxiety, the majority of the story is written with an almost nihilistic attitude towards almost all events in her life.  The only reprieve we get from this dark lens is from the interactions with Julia’s boyfriend, a relationship which she enjoys partially for its alienation from her complex home life.  This all changes towards the end of the novel where we see Julia’s ignorance fade as she learns of the struggles of her parents and the lives of her family members across the border.  Julia’s trip to Mexico lifts the grey veil on her narration as Julia’s confidence builds and her world view expands to encompass people in different situations than her.  It is only after this event that we are able to Julia’s story through a happier, mentally stable narrator.

Opening at the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago

            In her efforts to repair relationships and tie up loose ends, Julia becomes a more likable character.  She gains empathy and understanding of other’s perspectives and appreciates that they may be different from her own.  Upon her return, Julia recognizes her mother and declares, “Because Amá is making such an effort to be a better mother, I’ve decided to be a better daughter” (pg 287).  This change of heart gives her character development which is essential to the story, but almost comes as a shock.  A recent theatrical adaptation gives Julia another chance in a different medium, providing an interesting opportunity to see further into her character progression during her time in Mexico.  With the alterations that may be made to the novel's timeline, a play may be able to provide insight into the mental transition Julia experiences, giving younger audiences more guidance in dealing with depression and anxiety.

            Mental health awareness has been a point for media attention over the past few years, and this novel is merely one example of guiding literature for teens who are experiencing similar mental states.  Sanchez does a terrific job in providing resources for her readers at the end of the novel, acknowledging that they may have much in common with the protagonist.  Though no two people react the same to medications that treat mental illness, this novel seems to use medication as a crutch to bring Julia's mental state back up.

Sanchez incorporates more accessible forms of depression aids such as journaling and exercising in Julia's recovery.  Why is this important considering the novel's target audience? 

What obstacles does this population face in seeking mental health care that mirror Julia's experience?