It is no secret that the hit series Shameless has recently taken the world by storm. The mixture of humor and drama seems to be captivating literally everyone. Although the show is based on an extremely torn family with endless messed up situations, there is no denying that there is a part of ourselves that can relate to the dysfunction. There is something so real about this show which keeps me coming back for more. Along with this, Shameless sends a lot of important messages about life overall, showing that no matter how difficult an obstacle can be, you can always get through it. Here are a few of the reasons I find Shameless to be so important…

Attention: there may be some spoiler alerts ahead so if you are early on in the series, read at your own risk

Shameless shows the reality of addiction

We can all agree that, although he is quite hilarious, Frank is the perfect example of an alcoholic. He shows the harsh reality of his addiction: even when doctors told him he would die; he just could not stop. Even when he had no money to afford it, he just could not stop. He let it take over his life and tear apart his family… it is sad but this is what addiction can do, and it is important to be looked at as a sort of disease, because essentially that is what it is.

On the other hand, there is lip who, aside from being incredibly hot, sheds light on addiction by going to rehab and working to become somebody. after all, the kid is a genius.

Shameless illustrates living with mental illness

There's Monica on one hand, who shows how bipolar disorder, along with any other mental illness, can completely consume one's life if not treated

But then theres Ian who lives with Bipolar disorder as well and shows how it is possible to move forward and get help. He even uses his experience to make something of himself, helping those who suffer with mental illness as well.

And then theres Sheila, everyones absolute favorite character (well mine at least) who suffers with agoraphobia. Not much has to be said about her, she is just the best

Shameless normalizes LGBTQ relationships

Although they are very dysfunctional, it's hard not to love Ian and Mickey

And this might be one of the only shows I know that even touches on the trans community… and come on, Trevor is the best.

Shameless has a strong and independent female lead

Let’s be honest, the Gallagher family would not be held together without the endless dedication Fiona puts in. Despite having so many issues of her own, she puts her family before herself and always puts on a strong face no matter how hard it may be.

Lastly, Shameless shows the ability to overcome and come together

There is no doubt that shameless is filled with endless situations that are jaw dropping, and that we feel no one would be able to recover from, but then we see a magical thing; life moves on. This series shows such a torn apart and dysfunctional family with no parental guidance, yet everyone in the family is able to grow up and become somebody despite the circumstances (besides Debbie, I’m sorry, she’s the worst). Most importantly, shameless sends a message of acceptance; accepting how people live their lives, accepting certain situations, and accepting the hand we are dealt and doing the best we can with it. If you have not hopped on the Shameless bandwagon, it's about time you see why it's driving everyone crazy!