Bipolar disorder has the on-the-nose shorthand of happy/sad theatre masks.
Post-traumatic stress disorder, helpfully or not, has cornered the market in blindfolded soldiers screaming.
Whatever the cliches, all those images foreground mental anguish and not its symptoms.
Nobody would illustrate depression with a picture of an untidy room.
Depicting anorexia through part of its physical expression is similarly inadequate.
There are a few reasons it happens.
Grotesque curiosity about the human body is one.
A third is simple ignorance.
It depicts a disease that doesnt only threaten Imos health, but also seeks to destroy her relationships.
It presents itself as her trusted confidant and cheerleader, while, you know, trying to kill her.
To begin with, Anna seems supportive even.
No pain, no gain.
Then you notice the smirk on Annas face whenever Imo criticises herself.
Theres just so many things about myself I need to change, says a distressed Imo in episode one.
Instead of comforting her, Anna smiles.
Stick with me, she promises and you wont even recognise yourself.
That line is powerfully telling about the experience of anorexia.
OConnor and Ryan are skilled at extracting the common usage phrases that reveal Imogenes desire for self-obliteration.
Filming her lifestyle vlog, Imo introduces her new fitness plan and presents the new me to the camera.
Exercise is empowerment, she sings.
I just need to minimise.
Go back to rewatch Imogenes cheery opening monologue after finishing the episodes, and the clues are all there.
Shes insomniac and describes herself as totally alone.
All that makes her vulnerable to a mental illness that finds footholds in already fragile places.
As she explains to love interest Wayne in a later episode, Its just a control thing.
She provides her with comfort, insinuating herself into Imos personal space with sinister affection.
Overshadowedis just as smart in its construction as its writing.
Any contrivance required by the first-person perspective is easily forgiven.
Theres no opportunity for sufferers to pick up tips or inspiration here.
Viewers couldnt compete with Imos weight if they tried because it isnt revealed.
What youre shown is someone in great pain, diminishing before your eyes.
Ultimately too, its message leaves viewers with hope.
Recovery is real and its possible for everybody, says OConnor, who knows that first-hand.
Call 0808 801 0677 or 0808 801 0711 for the Youthline.
Mind
National Health Service
Overshadowed is currently available to watchhere on BBC iPlayer.
