I think that it depends on the disposition of the individual—different people are likely to be exposed to different perspectives online, depending on their surrounding environment, friends, family, etc. In general, the media can have polarized effects to massive scales because it's a powerful instrument that affects the attitude of the masses. Another way to look at the relationship between "depression" and the "media" is by drawing a direct causal link. Some say that the media worsens cases of depression by exposing people to unattainable/feigned standards, functioning as a platform for cyber-bullying, and making individuals feel more isolated by reminding them of what "they don't have" or what "they're missing out on."

I believe that while media does attempt to educate and spread awareness about mental illness, it also perpetuates misunderstandings and unfortunate stereotypes. In TV shows and movies, psychological disorders are often portrayed in an extreme manner that is atypical of the general experience. The resulting stereotypes create a stigma and put distance between a "normal" person and one with mental illness. I also do not think that the media truly focuses enough on the severity of the struggle, the suffering, and the pain of mental illness. All mental illnesses are complex and affect people in different ways, but in my experience, the symptoms of the same disorder shown across different shows/movies tend to be very similar. Media is a medium wherein many of the general public get their information, but this inaccurate portrayal of mental illness is very damaging, not only to those who suffer from it but also society as a whole.