Watch In My Own World

In My Own World is a documentary series produced by Vice TV which premiered in June 2020. The show explores the lives of people who have created their own unique worlds to cope with their day-to-day struggles, traumas, and mental health issues. The series comprises of eight episodes, each of which tells the story of someone who has turned to their own worlds as an escape from reality. The subjects of the documentary have created their own realms that range from a medieval fantasy world to a digital universe, and even a poetic dreamland. Through in-depth interviews, the creators open up about their experiences with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that have led them to isolate themselves and seek refuge in their own worlds. They describe the process of creating their realms, the characters and storylines they’ve developed, and how their creations have helped them manage their mental health. The first episode, titled 'Medieval Reinvention', follows a 23-year-old aspiring writer from North Carolina named Nick. Nick has created a medieval kingdom that serves as a way for him to cope with his anxiety and depression. The documentary shows Nick donning his knight armor and taking part in live-action role-playing games with his friends. Nick explains how crafting the stories of his characters helps him feel more confident in his writing and gives him a sense of purpose. In episode two, 'Living in a Dream', the focus shifts to a French artist named Sophie who has created a surreal and poetic world influenced by her vivid dreams. The segment features Sophie exploring different surreal paintings and sculptures she’s created, with each piece representing a particular aspect of her dream world. Sophie speaks candidly about her past experiences with depression and anxiety and how they have influenced her creative process. Another episode, 'Digital Universe', delves into the world of a young game designer named Reilly. Reilly has set up his own virtual game world, complete with characters and environments that he has designed himself. The game provides a space for Reilly to escape from stress, relax, and explore his creativity. Further episodes take viewers into other worlds, including a game addiction support group that has found comfort in role-playing games, and a cosplay community where people don their favorite costumes and get transported into fictional universes. The show was praised for its empathetic approach towards its subjects, allowing them to tell their stories in their own words. While some may view the documentary as a celebration of escapism, the series’ creators highlight that the subjects’ worlds are ultimately a way for them to work through their issues rather than avoid them. Overall, In My Own World is a thought-provoking and introspective documentary that sheds light on the ways in which people use creativity and imagination as coping mechanisms. It encourages viewers to prioritize their mental health and reassures anyone who may be struggling that they are not alone in their experiences.