How Avatar Took Fans To The Edge Of Depression

James Cameron defied the odds to make "Avatar" a global phenomenon. Groundbreaking effects and a thought-provoking storyline helped the film become a box-office juggernaut in 2009. At the time, certain audience members began reporting a longing to be on Pandora. This feeling went beyond wistful daydreaming, turning into something life-changing.

CNN first reported on what was deemed the "Avatar blues" in 2010. The condition is said to create depression in conjunction with viewing the film. For those who experience it, these feelings stem from a lack of ever being able to visit or interact with Pandora. Upon the first film's release, the outlet was able to find many comments on the subject due to a dedicated fan forum — "Avatar Forums." Those suffering from the "Avatar blues" could speak with others suffering or even find fans who could help them create a peaceful resolution to those feelings. Unfortunately, the condition can also manifest itself as suicidal thoughts.

A forum user, only known as Mike, spoke to this on another fan site called "Naviblue." "I can't stop thinking about all the things that happened in the film and all of the tears and shivers I got from it," the user wrote. "I even contemplate suicide thinking that if I do it I will be rebirthed in a world similar to Pandora and the everything is the same as in 'Avatar.' " There's no word on the user's current condition as of 2023 or if they received mental health counseling in connection with these thoughts.

If you or anyone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline​ at​ 1-800-273-TALK (8255).