The hit Netflix series “Baby Reindeer” is sparking a nuanced conversation about mental health as it tells the tale of struggling comedian Donny Dunn and his stalker, Martha. Creator Richard Gadd based the story off his real experiences with stalking and intentionally tried to break away from previous pop culture depictions of stalking that tend to romanticize it. The series offers a unique perspective on stalking by showcasing the layers of the issue with a human quality not often seen on television before, turning the traditional stalker story on its head.
Throughout the seven episodes of “Baby Reindeer,” viewers are taken on an intense psychological journey that delves into Martha’s unhealthy obsession with Donny and the role he plays in encouraging her. Therapist Avigail Lev described the story as one of the most realistic and accurate portrayals of trauma on television, praising its nuanced and accurate depiction of mental challenges both characters exhibit in the series. Lev diagnoses Martha with erotomania, a delusional disorder where the person believes someone of higher status or a public figure is in love with them, and borderline personality disorder, characterized by all-or-nothing thinking and emotional dysregulation.
While Martha’s diagnosis is fairly clear cut, Donny’s is more complex due to his struggles with confidence and sexual identity following a traumatic experience. Lev suspects that Donny has post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) based on his ongoing reactions to traumatic events in his life. She also brings up Stockholm syndrome and trauma bonding when speaking about Donny, suggesting that his behavior towards Martha could be a response to his trauma and a coping mechanism to regain a sense of control in his life.
Lev offers advice on how to handle a situation involving a stalker like Martha, emphasizing the importance of ignoring the abuser and gathering evidence to protect oneself. It is crucial to inform the stalker through written communication that their behavior is not tolerated and outline consequences, such as involving authorities and obtaining a restraining order. Finally, the therapist recommends completely disengaging from the stalker using techniques like the “gray rock” method, which involves being uninteresting and unresponsive to minimize interaction and protect oneself from further harm.
Overall, “Baby Reindeer” sheds light on the complexities of mental health and trauma through its portrayal of stalking and its impact on both the victims and perpetrators. The series offers a realistic and nuanced look at the psychological challenges faced by individuals experiencing trauma and obsession, prompting discussions and raising awareness about these important issues. Through the characters of Donny and Martha, viewers gain insight into the intricacies of mental illness, trauma responses, and coping mechanisms in the face of adversity.