Filmmakers behind the short film Finding Wilson are aiming to raise awareness of mental health issues in young adults.
Currently on its film festival tour, Finding Wilson, in support of The Lucy Rayner Foundation, seeks to change the conversation around mental health in the hope of encouraging more people to seek care.
Produced by Fact Not Fiction Films, the short features rising star Darcy Jacobs, who recently appeared in Missing a Note opposite Ian McElhinney and Elaine Paige.
Finding Wilson tells the story of a life-changing event, where a young girl, Jess, encounters a stranger while walking in a secluded forest – but not everything appears as it seems.
The impact of mental health issues in young people is creating a societal challenge that has yet to be fully addressed, with global healthcare services being stretched by increased numbers of patients suffering from mental disorders. This is especially true in younger generations, and in particular, following the impact of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns that have changed how we live.
Mental health issues can occur following traumatic, stressful events or as a result of other disorders. Everyday life can also get in the way, and lead to a number of mental health problems including anxiety, insomnia, PTSD and depression.
While mental health becomes an increasingly important issue, those facing certain ailments such as PTSD or anxiety are not always able to receive the care and support they need. These conditions can also be misdiagnosed as symptoms vary greatly from person to person.
The Lucy Rayner Foundation was set up in 2012 following the tragic death of Lucy Rayner, who took her own life after struggling with mental illness at just the age of 22. Her mother Jenny and her family set up the foundation in order to raise awareness of mental health challenges in young people, and to bring much needed services to individuals facing mental health challenges.
Finding Wilson is currently being showcased at film festivals around the world, aiming to help increase public awareness of mental health ailments while encouraging those affected to seek support.