Heartstopper Season 2: Exploring Bullying and Anxiety Consequences

Netflix's Heartstopper season 2 portrays the lasting trauma and anxiety caused by bullying, shedding light on the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals.

In the first season of Netflix's Heartstopper, we are introduced to Charlie, a brave young boy who is openly gay in a school where he is the only one. Prior to the events in the show, Charlie faced severe bullying after being accidentally outed. This led him to isolate himself and only interact with his close friends, making school a nightmare for him. However, when he befriends Nick, his life begins to change.

In the second season, Charlie and Nick are in a blissful relationship. Nick, who recently came out as bisexual to his mom, contemplates coming out to the entire school. While Charlie is happy for Nick, this decision triggers his own unresolved trauma from his past. Heartstopper effectively portrays how trauma and anxiety can continue to haunt individuals long after the bullying has stopped.

Charlie's concern for Nick's potential bullying mirrors his own experiences, and he devises a plan to protect him from negative reactions. This is a common trait among those with anxiety – we try to shield others from harm based on our own triggers. However, this approach often backfires, leading to endless worrying and creating backup plans. If these plans fail, the negative thoughts and hurtful words from the past resurface, perpetuating a vicious cycle.

Following a homophobic encounter with Nick's older brother, Charlie finds himself apologizing for simply being openly gay in Nick's house. At this moment, eerie animated shadow figures appear, mouthing hurtful words directed at Charlie. This representation accurately captures the feeling of being blamed for events beyond our control and the tendency of individuals with anxiety to assume responsibility for everything. The chorus of Tegan and Sara's "You Wouldn't Like Me" playing in the background perfectly encapsulates Charlie's mental state.

Despite having people who care about him, Charlie keeps his anxiety bottled up. Only Nick and Tao truly understand the toll that bullying has taken on him. During their trip to Paris, Nick notices that Charlie isn't eating enough. Charlie eventually faints at the Louvre due to low blood sugar but attributes it to the heat and excitement. The trip also brings Charlie face to face with Ben, a boy from his past with whom he had a secretive relationship. The accumulation of stressors becomes overwhelming for Charlie.

Finally, Charlie opens up to Nick about his struggles, admitting that he kept them hidden to avoid burdening others with his negative emotions. He feared that Nick would see him as fragile and broken. This resonates with anyone who has experienced anxiety. Charlie reveals that controlling his food intake is the only aspect of his life he feels he has power over. Additionally, he discloses that his relationship with Ben lacked consent, as he believed he deserved such treatment after being constantly belittled and devalued for being gay.

What sets Heartstopper apart is its refusal to showcase the explicit details of the bullying. Instead, the aftermath is enough to convey the impact it has on Charlie. Witnessing his struggles is heart-wrenching, but it is crucial to depict these stories to raise awareness and help individuals recognize the symptoms of anxiety and seek support.

Heartstopper reminds us that no one should have to endure such mistreatment and that everyone deserves better. As someone who has experienced anxiety firsthand and as a parent of a child affected by bullying-induced anxiety, it is essential to share these narratives to promote understanding and encourage individuals to seek help when needed.