Famous people have it all – money, power, good luck, or fame but this doesn’t make them immune to mental health-related problems. The stress from having to keep a perfect appearance at all times can take a toll on anyone. Celebrities are not left out. In time past, many public figures kept their mental struggles private, but in recent years, they are more outspoken than before.
Musicians, actors, and political figures have all opened up about their mental health struggles. Their willingness to share this information indicates that depressive disorders and other mental health problems are not as taboo as they used to be. It also shows that depression can happen to anybody, regardless of their status or class.
Depression is one of the most common mental disorders around the world. So, don’t be surprised if you find a famous person with depression or other mental health issue. The WHO estimates that over 350 million people suffer from depression. Although there are different types of treatment for this illness, more than half of sufferers have never had any treatment.
When left untreated, this condition can affect how a person behaves and carry out day-to-day activities. Since we sometimes look up to famous people as mentors, let’s now consider some of them who have faced this illness and what they have to say about it.
Some Famous People and How They Cope With Depression
Here are some celebrities and their experience:
Johnny Depp
Johnny is one of the greatest actors of his era but during interviews, you will notice he stutters and his facial expressions are always a big giveaway. Johnny suffers from a severe anxiety disorder. This has led to other serious mental health conditions which he often goes for therapy to manage.
Eminem
This rapper has been battling depression for many years. There was a time he couldn’t eat, leave his bed, or write any song. He described the situation as very tough. He later found help and has been managing his condition for years now.
Jim Carrey
He makes you laugh so it may come as a shock to you that Jim has been living with depression for many years. After his second divorce, Jim had to visit a psychiatrist for help. This medical professional prescribed the anti-depressant Prozac to Carrey. For years, Jim Carrey has been taking medication. He also follows a specific healthy diet which he says has improved his mental wellness. For other things that can improve mental wellness, read this article.
Ellen DeGeneres
About 20 years ago when Ellen announced to the entertainment world that she was LGBTQ+, her life started falling apart. She lost her show and subsequently lost her job and income. This made her sink into deep depression which she felt would take her life. Later, after seeking medical attention and not giving up on herself. Ellen finally landed a new talk show job and a blockbuster movie role.
Cara Delevingne
Cara's story is a clear example of how being born rich and famous never stops depression from happening. At a very young age, she was a supermodel. She was famous and very rich. However, she lost her self-esteem along the way, became anxious, and had depressive attacks. She tried using medication and therapy but to no avail. Then she turned to hard drugs.
Drug abuse has its dangerous consequences and Cara almost learned that the hard way. Thankfully, her plan of suicide was unsuccessful and, she went for therapy once again.
Harrison Ford
This famous actor with lead roles in Indiana Jones and Han Solo also experience depression for most of his years. He grew up as a shy kid and experienced a lot of bullying from his peers. He didn’t fit in while in college and struggled academically. He later joined a drama group in school and started overcoming his shyness and anxiety.
Lady Gaga
Gaga is one of the most outspoken celebrities when it comes to matters of mental health. She has a foundation that helps to empower and offer resources to young ones living with mental disorders. Gaga struggled with these issues throughout her life and is doing all she can to help others too.
Kristen Bell
This actress is popular for her voice and movies. She has starred in many high-budget films and you can say she is very famous and wealthy. But what you wouldn’t know about Kristen Bell is her struggle with depression. In an interview some years ago, Bell revealed that she has been taking medication for her mental disorder since college. She added that it seems to be hereditary, which is the case for some depressive disorders. If you would like to know other causes of depression, check here: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
Demi Lovato
This musician and actress have suffered from several personality and emotional issues. She has checked herself to a treatment facility before due to the constant maniac shift in energy and mood swings. Music has helped her cope as well as therapy. Now, Lovato is a serious advocate of bipolar disorder.
Dolly Parton
Popular called the queen of country music, Dolly Parton has suffered from severe depression since the early 1980s. There was a time she attempted suicide. Reflecting on those times, Parton said she is grateful that she didn’t take her own life.
Michael Phelps
The most decorated Olympian of all time also suffers from low self-esteem and depressive mood swings. This issue has made him lose friends and other important acquaintances. At times, Phelps wanted to take his own life. He turned to substance abuse and had to go for rehabilitation for a few years. Phelps has finally managed to gain control of his emotional state, thanks to his wife, rehabilitation, and son.
Conclusion
If you or your loved one is experiencing a crisis due to depression, know that you are not the only one in such a situation. This mental illness can affect anyone irrespective of their profession or financial status. Going for therapy will help improve your health. It is very important to seek help.
