One South: Portrait of a Psych Unit

Have worked on Psychiatric (Behavioral Health) unit for past 25 years and while this Documentary did capture and portray many aspects of the hard work, dedication etc of the staff. It is either a sugar coated version or this hospital functions on a level and budget far above the norm.

It's like doing a Prison movie or documentary and using a Minumum Security country club prison instead of a Maximum Security prison.

The Reality is a much harsher, down and dirty one that this Documentary does not scratch. The worst day/ time shown in this film would be the best/easiest day at work that most in this field could hope for. This paints an unrealistic view of what it's REALLY like working Psych Combine the above with the constantly moving cameras (I was getting dizzy) and unstructured jump all over from patient to patient and storylines to storylines and I was like extremely disappointed in this.

"One South" offers a poignant and enlightening look into the lives of adolescent patients and the dedicated staff within a mental health unit.

The staff's dedication is palpable, and their interactions with the adolescents are a testament to their mission to create a safe and nurturing environment. Most memorable for me was a conversation between two clinical psychologists discussing their approaches about their choices and whether different therapeutic routes might have been better for a certain patient, etc. While we all question our decisions in daily and professional life, for these clinicians, the stakes seem much higher, and I imagine the weight of that is immense.

"One South" also gives a voice to the patients themselves, allowing viewers to gain a deeper understanding of their struggles. The documentary's empathetic portrayal fosters a sense of connection that sheds light on the daily battles faced by these young individuals, and so many others. It's a powerful reminder that mental health challenges are real and impactful.

The documentary does more than just highlight the work of the unit; it opens up meaningful conversations about mental health. By bringing these issues to the forefront, "One South" encourages viewers to discuss and destigmatize mental health conditions. It's a crucial step towards fostering a more supportive and informed community.

For local families, this documentary offers invaluable insights into how an adolescent mental health unit operates. It demystifies the processes and shows the humanity and care behind the clinical facade. This transparency can be reassuring for families who may be navigating similar challenges, providing them with a sense of hope and understanding.

The documentary does an exceptional job of portraying the complexities and daily realities for both the staff and patients.

This wasn't what I thought it would be. I've been in three psych ward type places, and I thought this was going to be a documentary exposing them. One South looks like a nice place where you actually get to see doctors so this place does look good. I have been in a place similar, but two of the three places I've been in were horrible. I hoped this documentary would show that side, so it just wasn't what I expected. Watching is also a little triggering so I would say only watch if you're a medical professional/ therapist looking to research about your job. Or if you are looking to potentially check yourself into One South and want more info about it.

One South: Portrait of a Psych Unit is all of the things listed in my review subject. It's an exceptionally insightful look into the world, into a world of condition and care that too many people don't know, or understand that exists. It's warming to see the level of empathy the doctors approach their patients with, and the patience and kindness. We are also given insight into the day to day stresses and frustrations of doctors and patients. It's also a little terrifying to watch, and understand that this could be anyone, going through what these people are going through, or maybe a few steps from it, and it could just be that one thing that happens that brings us all there. I'm thankful that there are people that are out there doing the good work to help others. I'm thankful for a show like this that is bringing attention where it is needed. Too many people are ignorant that things can go this way, be this bad, and something like this is enlightening, and re-enforcing of an important point, to always be kind, always be compassionate. You have no idea what people are dealing with or going through. Artistically speaking, the show is very well shot, it tells a spectacular story, and it paints a vivid picture of all of the above. Also, it's a documentary at it's core, and it achieves it's purpose solidly.

This is a great look behind the scenes of what a psych ward can be like. I am impressed by the care and compassion the medical staff provide. The patients and their stories are so important and need to be amplified to reduce the stigma of those with mental illnesses.

As someone who has been diagnosed with a mental illness and admitted to about a handful of psychiatric wards I WISH they were like this one. Sadly I've experienced a range of very challenging environments and often with people of varying severity of symptoms. At times it was very scary and felt like the opposite of a safe and therapeutic environment.

I would recommend that people watch this to understand the kind of care that exists and the various treatments available. It's so important to find resources (preferably before you need them) and to prioritize your mental health.