Warning: This article contains subject matter some may find distressing
A new documentary delves into a mental health condition that affects just two percent of people.
While many of us have probably heard of the condition before, few actually know what it's like to live with.
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Now, comedian Joe Tracini had bravely opened up about his experience in the brand new doc:
On the face of it, Joe is a successful comedian and actor, known for sharing hilarious videos on social media, with hundreds of thousands of followers supporting him.
However, as he explains in the new Channel 4 doc Me and The Voice in My Head, he struggles to overcome the negative thoughts attacking him almost every second of every day.
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Joe was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) a decade ago, and in recent years, he's been open about how it has impacted his life, sharing updates with his fans on social media.
The new doc now allows cameras into Joe's life, with the comic introducing the world to 'Mick', the name he has given the incessant voice in his head.
As opposed to the common inner monologue most experience, 'Mick' feeds Joe incredibly negative patterns of thought, telling him that he should hurt himself and even end his own life.
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Viewers see first-hand the effect these feelings have on Joe as he struggles to express himself in the way he would like while 'Mick' constantly undermines him.
In a bid to delve into the root cause of the condition, Joe speaks to family members about his childhood, as well as his girlfriend to see how it also impacts other people's lives around him.
This all plays out amid the build-up to a one-man show Joe is preparing for in the hope of reigniting his comedy career.
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Speaking ahead of the doc's release, Joe said he was thankful to have the opportunity to let people into his life and explain what it's like to live with BPD.
"Most films about mental illness are, ironically, depressing," the 35-year-old said.
"I’m a lot of things, but serious is rarely one of them. I think we can all agree that it’s not the easiest time to be alive, and with things getting worse faster than I can lower my standards, I’m very grateful to Channel 4 & Hungry Bear Media for letting me tell my story my way.”
What is Borderline Personality Disorder?
BPD is the most commonly recognised personality disorder, and can cause emotional instability, disturbed patterns of thinking or perception, impulsivity and intense but unstable relationships with others.
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According to the NHS, there are a number of factors that can cause a person to develop BPD, with a combination of genetic and environmental forces being central.
You can find out more information about Borderline Personality Disorder here.
Topics: TV and Film, Entertainment, Documentaries, Health, Mental Health, Channel 4
Dominic Smithers