Alex's Answer
Is it normal to feel attached to anime characters?
Your Question
I started watching anime even before i was a teenager and it gave me a sense of comfort watching it and I still watch it up till now but I think i am really attached to non existing characters and I get really sad that people can’t be nice like them i feel like a weirdo because 2d characters give me comfort that no one else can is this normal? To imagine scenarios as well?Â
Answer
Hello there,Â
Thank you for contacting us here at Ask Alex.Â
Sounds like watching anime is something that has given you great comfort, and it’s something that you still like to watch now. All of us are different and unique and have many varying interests and passions which is absolutely okay. You say you’re feeling attached to particular characters and that they are nice, what other qualities do you like about them? Sometimes we may like and identify with characters we see whether that’s in anime, books, movies or tv shows. Are there any people in your own life that have the same qualities?Â
You’re saying you feel like a weirdo as the anime characters provide you with the type of comfort that no one else can, and that you also imagine different scenarios involving these characters. Using our imagination is perfectly normal and in fact, it’s a great quality. Perhaps one day you’ll become an animator yourself! What are the people in your own life like? Remember, you have the right to be surrounded by people that treat you well and with respect. Â
You mention that you can get really sad and that’s understandable since you say you feel people in your day-to-day life can’t be nice like the anime characters. Is there anyone you can talk to when you feel really sad? We are always here for you at Childline 24/7, 365 days a year on 1800 66 66 66, if you would like to talk to someone about how you’re feeling. We won’t judge you or give out to you, and it is your space to talk about whatever you’d like, as much or as little as you want. If you don’t feel like talking over the phone, we also have a text service (50101) or a chat service (www.childline.ie) where there will always be someone to listen to you.Â
Thank you so much for contacting Ask Alex with your question, and we would love to hear from you anytime you would like to chat.Â
Take care,Â
AlexÂ