AXA has announced the co-production of a 90-minute unscripted documentary titled “Group Therapy.” The film features stand-up comedians and actor Neil Patrick Harris, who participate in a group therapy session that uses humour to address mental health topics.
The project is co-produced with Hartbeat Productions, the company founded by Kevin Hart. The documentary is based on the idea that “sharing is therapeutic” and aims to illustrate that open discussion is the starting point for addressing mental health.
AXA said that the initiative is part of its broader commitment to supporting mental health globally, with a particular emphasis in France, where mental health has been designated a Grande Cause for 2025.
Virginie Berçot (pictured above), global brand director at AXA Group, said the company sought to “rethink traditional communication formats to reach the widest audience with an approach that could be incorporated into platforms that are now essential - streaming services - and with long-format content that explores the various facets of mental health issues in depth.”
The documentary is available worldwide on Amazon Prime Video, the LOL Network on YouTube, and as part of Air France’s in-flight entertainment in October. Distribution also includes Astresplayer Platform in Spain and france.tv Replay in France. The project has been recognised at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York and at Cannes Lions 2025.
AXA’s initiative comes as new research underscores the need for greater awareness and prevention efforts in mental health. The Mind Health Study 2025, conducted by AXA with IPSOS, found that 32% of the global population currently experiences mental disorders.
Among young adults, 44% report mental health difficulties, and 52% believe that intensive use of social networks and digital devices negatively affects their mental health. The study also indicates that 52% of respondents would like their employer to introduce mental health support measures.
In France, AXA’s Datascope 2025 reports that mental health is the leading cause of long-term sick leave.
The insurance industry itself is facing significant challenges related to mental health among its workforce. A previous survey by AXIS Capital revealed that 77% of insurance employees sought mental health support in the past year, with younger professionals particularly likely to access these resources.
Despite the availability of mental health resources, industry sentiment suggests that more needs to be done. The same survey found that 80% of respondents felt mental health is not prioritised enough in the insurance sector compared to other industries. This perception points to a gap between existing support measures and employee expectations.
What are your thoughts on this story? Please feel free to share your comments below.
