Anime has evolved over time, with its stories becoming more complex and introducing new perspectives in fields like science and psychology. While in the past, there were concerns about how violent battle anime affected young minds, the focus has shifted towards the positive messages of heroism it conveys.
This impactful message has inspired Italian psychiatrist Francesco Panto to develop a unique approach called anime therapy, offered to his patients in Japan.
According to Panto, his early affinity for anime played a vital role in shaping his personality, so when he recognized the struggles faced by people dealing with social issues or “hikikomori” in Japan, he dedicated himself to helping them overcome social anxiety.
Specific animes like “Sailor Moon” and “Neon Genesis Evangelion” played transformative roles in Panto’s life. “Detective Conan,” in particular, helped him become fluent in Japanese.
The profound storytelling within Japanese anime, Panto believes, can provide valuable assistance to those who might otherwise hesitate to seek medical help.
“Japanese anime is complicated and profound. I think there are people who can be helped with the power of its storytelling. I think we can make them feel less hesitant about seeing a doctor if they can receive treatment while they enjoy anime,” he said about his unique approach.
Anime is great energizer
On the local front, many Filipinos have developed a fascination for anime because of its ability to provide an escape from daily routines.
Marvin, an anime enthusiast, said anime frees him from the physical and mental stresses of daily life, transporting him to another world where boundless possibilities and magic are more than just fantasies.
Like Panto, Marvin sees anime scenes as just as compelling as live-action movies, creating lasting impacts on viewers.
“Watching anime is a great way to feel like a child again, to be carefree. I feel like the minutes that I spend watching anime, I am able to regenerate. I forget about my body’s weariness and the restlessness of my mind. It’s like my aging process has stopped in these moments,” he said.
Marvin’s engagement extends to sports anime, where he lives vicariously through characters achieving marvelous feats with hard work and passion.
For Gerard, a homebody when he was young and who spent countless hours watching anime, the life lessons he learned from anime included love for family, friendship, respect for others, and perseverance.
Inspired by the anime “Laserion” in high school, he even created a basic robot in high school, eventually forging a career as a systems developer. “So much of my personality, I learned from anime,” he said.
Anime is also a positive bonding experience for families like Jeff and his son Bren, who have spent many happy hours watching 90s anime ranging from “Ghost Fighter,” “Flame of Recca,” “Hunter x Hunter,” “Naruto,” “Demon Slayer,” and “Fairy Tail.”
This shared passion not only nurtures their connection but also provides a platform for Bren’s understanding of right and wrong actions, said the father.
“So, if this anime therapy will be offered in the Philippines, I think it will be a great help for people who find it hard to socialize and open up to others,” Jeff added.
