Taylor Swift’s new documentary, “Miss Americana”, is causing a stir as she opens up about her struggles with hate, shame, anxiety, and an eating disorder that once made her dangerously skinny. It’s a reminder that celebrities are human too and face many of the same issues as everyone else.
Mental health, particularly anxiety, is increasingly discussed, and celebrities are no strangers to such conversations. According to the Mental Health Foundation, around three million people suffer from anxiety in the UK. Here are seven notable celebrities who have openly shared their battles with anxiety and panic attacks.
Taylor Swift, now 30, has faced a lot of public criticism ever since she was young, whether it was for being ‘annoying’, ‘too skinny’, or rumored to be pregnant. But how has this public scrutiny impacted her?
In her documentary “Miss Americana”, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 23rd, Swift revealed she isolated herself for a year, thinking that was what people wanted. Despite her outward confidence and numerous awards, Swift has struggled with anxiety, particularly in her romantic relationships. She felt she was constantly fighting for respect, having to dismantle a belief system that executives enforced, teaching her that a ‘nice girl’ doesn’t push her opinions on others.
The fear of never being enough led her to devastating behaviors like starving herself to fit a certain image. This took a significant toll on her, as candidly shown in the documentary. Introducing her song “Out of the Woods”, Swift mentions it represents her fragile feelings and constant worries about her relationship’s future.
“Miss Americana” is available in select theaters and on Netflix starting January 31st.
Actress Sienna Miller, known for “Stardust” and “Layer Cake”, shared in a Porter Edit magazine interview that she hasn’t used social media for over two years due to the anxiety it causes her. Celebrities discussing anxiety might sometimes be dismissed as a trend, but in reality, anxiety and depression are widespread issues. About 10% of the UK population will deal with some form of anxiety disorder in their lives.
Kendall Jenner has been vocal about her anxiety, which includes panic attacks and sleep paralysis. She’s had to navigate public life and intense scrutiny from an early age, even having to file restraining orders against stalkers, all of which has exacerbated her anxiety.
Adele, who found fame at 20, has been open about her stage fright and anxiety. She created an alter ego, Sasha Carter, inspired by Beyoncé and June Carter, to help her manage her anxiety during performances.
Kristen Bell has spoken extensively about her struggles with anxiety and depression, emphasizing the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. She’s been very open on social media and in interviews, encouraging others to seek help.
Ryan Reynolds, known for his role as Deadpool, has also opened up about his lifelong anxiety. He often uses humor and stays in character to cope with it. Reynolds believes his anxiety started from trying to manage a tense relationship with his father and has since learned to channel it positively through his work.
Gina Rodriguez, star of “Jane the Virgin”, discussed her struggles with anxiety, panic attacks, and thoughts of suicide. She has used social media as a platform to talk openly about her mental health and body image issues, hoping to inspire others.
These celebrities sharing their journeys helps show that anyone can be affected by anxiety, and speaking out about it can make a significant difference.
