In *Ordinary People*, the story begins with the Jarrett family, who outwardly seem to live a comfortable suburban life but are reeling from the loss of their eldest son in a tragic accident. Conrad, the surviving teenage son, struggles with overwhelming guilt and depression following the incident, compounded by his strained relationship with his emotionally distant mother. His father, meanwhile, tries to hold the family together while navigating his own grief and the growing rift within the household. The film unfolds with quiet intensity, portraying the fragility of a family that appears “ordinary” on the outside but is fractured within.
The theme of grief, therapy, and depression emerges most clearly through Conrad's journey of healing. Haunted by trauma and isolation, he reluctantly begins therapy, which becomes a lifeline in his struggle to process loss and rebuild a sense of self. The film underscores the importance of confronting emotions rather than suppressing them, showing how denial and lack of communication deepen suffering. By exploring different coping mechanisms within the family, *Ordinary People* highlights both the necessity and stigma of mental health treatment, especially during a time when such issues were rarely addressed openly in mainstream culture.
By the end, *Ordinary People* leaves viewers reflecting on the power of empathy, communication, and professional support in navigating grief and depression. It emphasizes that healing is not about erasing pain but about finding healthier ways to live with it. With its sensitive performances and emotional honesty, the film remains a landmark portrayal of mental health struggles within families. For more details you can explore the film's official page on IMDB.