Does media influence your perceptions of the mentally ill?

So, I’m a big fan of Homeland, but the last episode that aired Sunday night really hit a nerve. For those who don’t follow, the show is essentially centered around a CIA agent who also has Bipolar. If it’s Bipolar 1 or 2, I wouldn’t know. I also had a similar feeling of disgust watching Woody Allen’s most recent flick, centered around a woman that has a nervous breakdown. When I heard people laughing in the audience, I wanted to scream. (It wasn’t a comedy.)

Anyway, I think it’s a horrible representation of what, at least, my life is like. I’m Bipolar 1. However, I take my meds and save for some really bleak moments a couple of months ago, I’m doing okay. People may think I’m a bit off (paranoid?) but by no means would anyone suspect I suffer from Bipolar. (I even hate that word “suffer.”)

I just think that it’s almost obscene that the portrayal of Bipolar, or anyone within the scope of these mental illnesses are characterized. Yes, I know it makes for good drama, but it just increases the stigma.

So, my question: does the media (TV/Movies) sway you in any direction? Do you watch a film and assume that’s what we’re like? Or, does it disgust you? Somewhere in the middle?