What if your character’s behavior seems selfish… but they’re actually in pain?
Writers often struggle to make characters dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma feel relatable instead of off-putting. You want readers to connect with them—not judge them.
In this episode, Zena tackles how to portray characters struggling with mental health challenges in a way that feels true, empathetic, and dramatically compelling. You’ll learn how to let your character’s humanity shine—even when they’re making mistakes.
If you’ve ever worried your “flawed” character will lose the audience’s sympathy, this one’s for you.
Ready to write with more compassion and authenticity?
Subscribe to The Storyteller’s Mission for more insight on how to write stories that matter.
Available on YouTube + your favorite podcast app.
Full series + bonus resources: https://www.thestorytellersmission.com/podcast
This question came straight from Zena’s monthly office hours, which are open to anyone who’s ever purchased one of her classes. Want access like this? Check out her courses and join the mission. Learn more at The Storyteller’s Mission.
Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO
#screenwriting #writingtips #storytellersmission #authorlife #screenwriteradvice #StorytellersMission #WritingAdvice #CharacterDevelopment
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.