Generally we consider watching shows as means of escape. And yes, we always loved heroes that are larger than life, but clumsier than usual at the same time. Weaknesses and flaws are their ways to connect to the fans. People love it when the lead characters share their tendencies to throw tantrums and make stupid mistakes. Suddenly they are more human, more real, as if they are living, breathing entities. And we love it when we saw them overcome the odds despite of their weaknesses.

Inspiring, indeed!

But I know this mecha anime with a rather unorthodox approach to sell itself. Unlike other mecha shows in its league, their selling points are weakling pilots with serious mental issues. We saw a whiny lead character, an overly inflated red head and a mysterious weirdo. Nevertheless a lot of people can relate to them. As one describes, they are the mirror image of ordinary people, though some who endured more daily torture and managed to stand up might disagree.

Yes, the pilots are sick, but how sick are our beloved EVA characters?

I did a quick research in the net, and I found something rather interesting. These pilots seem to display authentic mental issues. If you want to learn more, just read below.