Changing the Narrative: Celebrities Destigmatize Mental Health Struggles
Changing the Narrative: Celebrities Destigmatize Mental Health 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.
鈥淲hen 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,鈥 says Amanda McNab, a licensed clinical social worker at Huntsman Mental Health Institute at the University of Utah. 鈥淪ociety 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.鈥
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 鈥,鈥 sharing that it鈥檚 something he鈥檚 dealt with since childhood. 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 children. 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鈥攍ike the ABC Please Method鈥攃an help manage symptoms and reduce the chance of developing anxiety.
Depression
Dwayne 鈥淭he Rock鈥 Johnson: Johnson recalls struggling with mental health in college after a football injury ended his dreams. At the time, he didn鈥檛 realize he was dealing with depression. But after facing more episodes, he eventually recognized the signs and leaned on friends for support. Today, he鈥檚 open about his mental health, regularly sharing 鈥渕ental health check-ins鈥 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鈥攕ometimes 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鈥攅specially 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 childhood 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 childhood trauma, eating disorders, and pressure from fame. She鈥檚 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鈥檚 brain and behavior, making it hard to control the use of drugs, medication, or alcohol鈥攅ven 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鈥攕uch as therapy, medication, and a strong community鈥攃ravings 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 Health Stigma
Whether you鈥檙e 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鈥攇etting 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鈥攐penly, 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.
Where to Go When You Need Mental Health Help Right Away
A mental health crisis does not always require a hospital bed, but it does require compassion and professional support. Learn how the Kem and Carolyn Gardner Mental Health Crisis Care Center offers immediate help鈥攏o appointment or referral needed.
Utah's New Mental Health Crisis Center Offers Immediate Support for Adults in Distress
You do not need to be suicidal or in psychosis to be in crisis. A mental health crisis can mean overwhelming anxiety, grief that would not lift, or a stretch of time when functioning feels impossible. Designed to be an alternative to ER visits or jail, the new Huntsman Mental Health Institute facility is open to any adult in need, no appointment required.
Emergency Mental Health Care Without Going to the ER: How Utah鈥檚 MCOT Comes to You
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