The new Taylor Swift documentary, “Miss Americana,” has everyone talking as she opens up about her struggles with hate, shame, anxiety, and an eating disorder. It’s easy to forget that celebrities are human too, facing issues just like the rest of us. Anxiety is no secret anymore, with a lot of people speaking out about mental health, including celebrities.
A survey by the Mental Health Foundation found that around three million people suffer from anxiety. Among them are some very influential celebrities. Here are a few you might recognize:
At 30, Taylor Swift has faced plenty of public criticism over everything from her personality to her appearance. Naturally, this has taken a toll on her. In “Miss Americana,” which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 23rd, she shares how she felt invisible for a year under the weight of public expectations.
Even though she is highly successful, with at least 21 awards, the documentary reveals how she has struggled with anxiety, especially around the need to be seen as the “good girl” as dictated by music executives. This fear led her to extreme dieting and feeling faint during live shows. Yet, she felt compelled to keep up appearances, which eventually impacted her mental health.
She candidly talks about her fears about the stability of a past relationship, wondering how long it would last before ending disastrously. Her documentary will be available in select theaters and on Netflix starting January 31st.
Moving on to other celebrities, actress Sienna Miller recently shared that she hasn’t engaged with social media for over two years due to the anxiety it causes her. It’s easy to dismiss celebrities talking about anxiety as a trend, but these disorders are very real and widespread. In the UK, about 10% of the population will experience some form of anxiety disorder in their life.
The 23-year-old model Kendall Jenner has spoken publicly about her anxiety through interviews and social media. Constantly in the spotlight, she has been the target of severe abuse and even had to file restraining orders. Jenner revealed she has panic attacks and sleep paralysis, a terrifying condition where you’re conscious but can’t move or speak.
Singer Adele has also been very open about her anxiety, especially her fears of performing live. The anxiety led her to create an alter ego, Sasha Carter, to help her cope.
Kristen Bell, famous for her role in “Frozen,” actively advocates for mental health awareness. She has shared her own experiences with anxiety and the importance of addressing mental illness without stigma. Using social media and interviews, she discusses her coping mechanisms and advice.
Ryan Reynolds, known for his quick wit and comedic roles, has admitted he uses his characters to deal with his anxiety. His humor and demeanor are influenced by his complex relationship with his father, leading him to become the man he is today.
Lastly, Gina Rodriguez, star of “Jane the Virgin,” has openly discussed her battles with panic attacks and suicidal thoughts. Using social media to share her journey, she aims to break the stigma around mental health, especially in the Latino community.
These celebrities show that anxiety can affect anyone, regardless of their fame or success, and opening up about it can help others understand they’re not alone.
