Unseen Scars, Unspoken Words: The Perks of Addressing Mental Health in Stephen Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Abstract

In the novel The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky, the theme of mental health takes center stage, offering a poignant and sensitive exploration of the challenges faced by adolescents struggling with emotional turmoil. The protagonist, Charlie, grapples with past traumas, depression and social anxiety, which profoundly impacts his daily life and relationships. Through Charlie’s candid and introspective narrative, the novel delves into the complexities of mental health, portraying the importance of seeking help and forming supportive connections. This study uses qualitative methodology, employing close textual analysis to examine the mental health challenges faced by the protagonist Charlie, as well as other characters such as Patrick's suppressed pain and Brad’s fear of accepting his identity. The study aims to identify the underlying themes and psychological aspects associated with mental health that are depicted in the novel through an analysis of key passages and character interactions including subtle nuances and implicit meanings by conducting a thorough analysis of the text from a psychoanalytic perspective. Through Chbosky's novel, this research offers a compassionate and authentic depiction of mental health, highlighting the importance of understanding, empathy and personal growth in navigating the challenges of adolescence.