A State of Mind
In the early 2020's, the Mountain West was in the grips of a full blown mental health crisis, with Wyoming ground zero. Stigma in isolated rural communities prevents people from seeking help, but with addiction, suicide, and PTSD devastating the state, it is time to start a conversation. This six part documentary series directed by Mat Hames traces the emotional journeys of families and individuals as they struggle, often in isolation, in what is often called 'the frontier state'. Conversations with Psychiatrists, Therapists, and clinical experts contextualize the struggles specific to living in the mountain west.
- 2022-2023
- 1 season
- Wyoming PBS
- Documentary
In the early 2020's, the Mountain West was in the grips of a full blown mental health crisis, with Wyoming ground zero. Stigma in isolated rural communities prevents people from seeking help, but with addiction, suicide, and PTSD devastating the state, it is time to start a conversation. This six part documentary series directed by Mat Hames traces the emotional journeys of families and individuals as they struggle, often in isolation, in what is often called 'the frontier state'. Conversations with Psychiatrists, Therapists, and clinical experts contextualize the struggles specific to living in the mountain west.
Season 1 Episode Guide
5 Episodes 2022 - 2023
Episode 1
The Cowboy Code
Fri, May 20, 2022
There is a mantra in the western U.S. called the 'cowboy code' - that you are supposed to pull yourself up by your bootstraps, stuff it inside and move on. This can lead to stigma around mental health care.
Episode 2
The Pickup Man
Fri, Sep 16, 2022
Wyoming has the highest rate of suicide in the United States.
Episode 3
The Lone Wolf
Mon, Nov 14, 2022
In the mountain west, addiction impacts people across all ages and groups. How are mental health and addiction intertwined?
Episode 4
Protecting the Protectors
Fri, Apr 28, 2023
First Responders experience high rates of depression and PTSD-related mental health challenges. How do we support those who provide care for the rest of us?
Episode 5
The Battle Inside
Fri, May 26, 2023
A soldiers' perspective of the mental health crisis, as they open up about their battle with post traumatic stress.