Diana is a suburban mother in her 30s or 40s who has been managing bipolar disorder with delusional episodes for sixteen years. She desperately wants to maintain the image of a perfect, stable family despite the heavy toll her medical treatments take on her emotional state. Feeling alienated by medication that numbs her feelings, she strives to find clarity of mind and authentic connection with her loved ones.

Dan is Diana’s deeply devoted husband who has spent years trying to hold their family together. He often represses his own emotional pain and exhaustion, believing that maintaining a facade of stability and functional normalcy is the best way to support his wife. Beneath his steadfast optimism, Dan harbors a profound fear of facing life alone.

Natalie is Dan and Diana's highly driven, anxious teenage daughter. She pours all her energy into her classical piano practice and schoolwork, hoping to secure a full scholarship to Yale as an escape from her chaotic home life. Feeling invisible in her own household, she struggles with perfectionism and the heavy emotional weight of her family's dynamic.

Gabe is Dan and Diana's teenage son, characterized by his boundless energy and involvement in numerous extracurricular activities like jazz band and football. He maintains a powerful, persistent presence in the Goodman household, particularly commanding his mother's attention and affection. He is highly protective of his bond with Diana and often challenges Dan's approach to the family's struggles.

Henry is Natalie's laid-back classmate who has a deep appreciation for jazz and musical improvisation. Directly contrasting Natalie's high-strung perfectionism, he takes an easygoing approach to life and frequently uses recreational drugs. Despite his relaxed exterior, he proves to be surprisingly steadfast and genuinely committed to supporting Natalie through her personal challenges.

Doctor Fine is Diana's clinical psychopharmacologist. He approaches her mental illness methodically, viewing her symptoms as chemical imbalances to be managed through precise medication adjustments. He evaluates Diana's lack of feeling as a successful state of stability, highlighting the clinical nature of his care.

Doctor Madden is Diana's new therapist, whom she occasionally envisions as a charismatic rock star. He advocates for non-medication-based treatments, pushing Diana to proactively confront her past and seek clarity of mind through intensive therapeutic exercises.