Of Mental Health In Catcher In The Rye, By J. D. Salinger

“Having depression is like being scared and tired at the same time. It’s the fear of failure, but no urge to be productive. It’s wanting friends, but hating socializing. It’s wanting to be alone, But not wanting to be lonely.” In the story, Catcher in the Rye J.D Salinger explores the topic of mental health. Through his main character, Holden Caulfield, Salinger implies the protagonist is dealing with depression.

The book, Catcher in the Rye takes place in the 20th century, specifically the 1950’s. the public viewed mental health issues in much narrower minded terms. Having a rejecting attitude toward people with a mental illness was more common. For example, in chapter 12, when holden has a conversation with Horwitz, his cab driver. Holden asks, “You know those ducks in that lagoon right near Central Park South? That little lake? By any chance, do you happen to know where they go, the ducks, when it gets all frozen over? Do you happen to know, by any chance?” (Salinger 35) . One can notice the cab driver becomes angry and annoyed. Horwitz responds irritated from holden’s stupid questions.

She’s nervous as hell. Half the time she’s up all night smoking cigarettes.” (Salinger, 93). It is clear that holden doesn’t really have a strong relationship with either of his parents. Holden sneaks into his apartment and listens to his mother yell at his younger sister phoebe. While Holden hides he can’t even find the confidence to confront his mother. In chapter 23, Holden says his mother often has headaches, “She gets headaches quit frequently . She really does.” (Salinger 105). Holden describes his mother as suffering with constant headaches and says she is still experiencing grief. Holden knowing his mother still has grief makes him feel guilty about being an extra problem in her life. Being neglected by his parents has only increased holden’s