Changing the Narrative: Celebrities Destigmatize Mental Ƶ Struggles
Changing the Narrative: Celebrities Destigmatize Mental Ƶ Struggles
Public figures like celebrities and journalists have a unique opportunity to help reduce stigma surrounding mental health. By sharing their personal experiences, they can help normalize symptoms and foster a more compassionate understanding of mental health challenges.
“When individuals who are prominent in the public eye share their own mental health journey, it allows others to see that they are not alone and that someone can be successful and experience emotional distress,” says Amanda McNab, a licensed clinical social worker at Huntsman Mental Ƶ Institute at the Ƶ of Utah. “Society values celebrity input, and when they are not afraid to talk about mental health, many will feel they do not need to be either. This opens more opportunities for conversation, education, and connection.”
In recent years, more celebrities have been outspoken about their mental health, which has sparked new dialogue and shed light on oftentimes common conditions. Here are a few examples.
Anxiety
Ryan Reynolds: The actor has been open about his “,” sharing that it’s something he’s dealt with since Ƶhood. His decision to speak publicly about it was deeply influenced by his role as a father. He has said that his anxiety has made him a more empathetic parent, allowing him to recognize and respond to similar emotions in his Ƶren. He also acknowledges that managing anxiety is an ongoing process but uses tools like meditation and self-awareness to stay grounded.
Chris Evans: Even Captain America struggles with mental health. The actor has openly shared his struggles with anxiety. He finds public events overwhelming and nearly declined the role of Captain America to protect his privacy. However, he says the Marvel role helped him confront his anxiety, and he now uses techniques like meditation, Buddhism, and spiritual books to stay present and calm his mind.
From the Expert
When anxiety becomes constant and overwhelming, it can affect your daily life and overall well-being. According to the , anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the U.S., affecting about 1 in 5 adults. Because anxiety is a recognized mental health condition, it often requires additional support. Incorporating strategies—like the ABC Please Method—can help manage symptoms and reduce the chance of developing anxiety.
Depression
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: Johnson recalls struggling with mental health in college after a football injury ended his dreams. At the time, he didn’t realize he was dealing with depression. But after facing more episodes, he eventually recognized the signs and leaned on friends for support. Today, he’s open about his mental health, regularly sharing “mental health check-ins” on Instagram. He encourages people to check in on others, ask for help, and see vulnerability as a strength.
From the Expert
Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and function in daily life. It can interfere with relationships, work, and overall well-being—sometimes lasting for weeks, months, and even years. In severe cases, depression can be disabling and, if left untreated, may lead to suicidal thoughts or death.
Depression can affect anyone. It has many causes but often stems from genetic, psychological, and social issues. If symptoms of depression last more than two weeks and interfere with your daily life, get help by calling or texting 988 or the Utah Crisis Lifeline right away.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Prince Harry: The Duke of Sussex has openly shared his struggles with mental health and PTSD, especially after the loss of his mother, Princess Diana, at a young age. In his memoir Spare, he describes how he suppressed grief for years, which led to panic attacks, severe anxiety, and emotional numbness. He also revealed turning to alcohol and drugs to cope. He credits therapy in helping him understand and manage his trauma and now encourages open conversations about mental health and emotional well-being—especially among veterans.
From the Expert
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop months to years after experiencing a traumatic event, such as an accident, violence, or a natural disaster. While many people feel numb, have nightmares, or relive the event for a short time, some continue to experience symptoms for months, which can lead to PTSD.
About will face a traumatic event in their lifetime. Early treatment is key to recovery; getting help sooner can improve outcomes and support healing. If you are experiencing PTSD symptoms, call or text 988 for free, 24/7 support.
Substance Use
Kid Cudi: Rapper Kid Cudi shares that Ƶhood and family challenges played a role in his long-term mental health struggles. As partying and substance use escalated in his 30s, he faced suicidal thoughts and chose to seek help for the first time. Rehab supported his recovery and helped him set healthier boundaries to protect his mental well-being.
Demi Lovato: The singer has been open about her long and complex journey with mental health and substance use. Her early struggles were influenced by Ƶhood trauma, eating disorders, and pressure from fame. She’s revealed that after breaking six years of sobriety, she spiraled into heavy drug use that led to a near-fatal overdose in 2018. Lovato has shared that her recovery began to feel possible when she started finding joy in small things and after building a supportive relationship with her treatment team.
From the Expert
Substance use disorder is a condition that affects a person’s brain and behavior, making it hard to control the use of drugs, medication, or alcohol—even when it causes harm. As dependence grows, substance use takes priority over important aspects of life, such as health, relationships, and responsibilities.
With the right support—such as therapy, medication, and a strong community—cravings can be managed. Those who were once struggling can once again live in line with their values, improving life for themselves and those around them.
How to Address Mental Ƶ Stigma
Whether you’re navigating your own mental health journey or supporting someone else, reducing stigma is key to fostering understanding and support.
- Start with Yourself. Challenge internalized stigma by learning about mental health conditions, seeking help, and sharing your experiences. Mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness—getting support is a strength.
- Shift the Conversation. Speak up against stigma and mental health discrimination when you hear it. Normalize mental health discussions by treating them like physical health—openly, respectfully, and without judgement.
- Connect and Support. Build strong connections by checking in on others, sharing resources, and joining support networks like the . Promote wellness through everyday habits (mindfulness, sleep, nutrition, and stress management) and encourage others to do the same.
We can and must change the conversation around mental health, especially as stigma and discrimination continue to keep people from addressing their psychological needs. Starting the conversation is the first step, and normalizing the conversations is what will lead those who struggle with mental illness every day to a healthier life.
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