Alex Davidson

This series is great, but it is different from the original. It takes a more realistic look at Steven's life and experiences, and how being in the middle of an intergalactic war as a child and finding out your mother lied to everyone (including you) about who they were, having to deal with the consequences of their actions, and also having a dual-identity status (half-human, half gem) that's resulted in Steven not knowing exactly how to be a human compared to others. He doesn't even know what the school grading system is, but that makes sense, because he never went to school. Steven Universe Future delves deep into Steven's mental health in a variety of ways that feel very real to me, ways that I've either experienced for myself or have seen in others. Everything from being anxious about meeting new people, or seeing the people you do know move on to new things, or the effects of PTSD/Adverse Childhood Experiences Steven's had as a result of BEING IN THE MIDDLE OF A WAR and NEARLY DYING or watching the people around him nearly die over and over. It's important to have shows like this to provide an example for people who might not have the experiences or knowledge to understand mental health issues that could be impacting themselves or someone they know. I don't know that this show would appeal as much, or hold as much value to a younger viewer as the original series does, but it can be really useful for older teens/young adults, or even regular adults, and can start a conversation with your child about mental health. Either way, it IS a different kind of series, and while everything feels consistent, it is more realistic, so you may be disappointed if you're looking for Steven to solve the problem in the 11 minutes of each episode. Honestly, even though Steven goes through some difficult times in the show, I would still say he's luckier than someone going through a mental health crisis in reality, because his powers cause his problems to physically manifest and helps to draw attention to his needs that for a non-gem person, might go unnoticed until it's too late. If You Know Someone in Crisis, Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Lifeline) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741). Both services are free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are confidential. Contact social media outlets directly if you are concerned about a friend’s social media updates or dial 911 in an emergency. Learn more on the Lifeline’s website or the Crisis Text Line’s website.