Gay Actresses Who Had Mental Health Problems

Many talented women in the entertainment industry have used their platforms to discuss their personal struggles with mental health. These actresses have opened up about their experiences with conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Their transparency helps to destigmatize mental illness and encourages fans to seek help when needed. This list highlights fifty LGBTQ+ actresses who have bravely shared their stories.

Cara Delevingne

This British actress and model identifies as pansexual and has been vocal about her battles with depression and dyspraxia. She experienced severe emotional distress during her teenage years that impacted her schooling and early career. Cara has stated that writing and creative expression helped her navigate her darkest moments. She continues to advocate for mental health awareness within the fashion and film industries.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose is a genderfluid actress who gained fame for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has struggled with depression and bipolar disorder throughout her life. The actress has also discussed her history of suicide attempts and hospitalization. She emphasizes the importance of therapy and medication in maintaining her well-being.

Kristen Stewart

Known for her role in the ‘Twilight’ saga, Kristen Stewart has openly discussed her debilitating anxiety. She experienced panic attacks and stomach pains due to the intense scrutiny she faced at a young age. The actress identifies as bisexual and has found that age and experience have helped her manage her stress. She now focuses on projects that challenge her creatively while prioritizing her mental peace.

Ellen DeGeneres

The comedian and former talk show host faced severe depression after her sitcom was cancelled in the late 1990s. This period followed her public coming out as a lesbian which led to a significant backlash in Hollywood. She utilized meditation and writing to recover from that difficult time. Ellen later returned to television with a renewed sense of purpose and resilience.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi battled a severe eating disorder and lupus while working on ‘Ally McBeal’. She has written a memoir detailing her struggles with anorexia and the pressure to remain closeted in Hollywood. The actress credits her recovery to seeking professional help and finding a supportive partner. She now lives a healthy lifestyle and advocates for others with similar issues.

Sarah Paulson

This Emmy-winning actress has been open about her struggles with anxiety and fear of flying. She often uses meditation and breathing techniques to cope with high-pressure situations on set. Sarah identifies as sexually fluid and has found stability in her long-term relationships. Her openness about her fears humanizes her in the eyes of her many fans.

Raven-Symoné

The former child star has discussed the toll that growing up in the spotlight took on her mental health. She attended therapy to deal with body image issues and the pressure to conform to industry standards. Raven identifies as a lesbian and has spoken about the relief of living her truth publicly. She encourages others to prioritize their mental wellness over societal expectations.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus has been candid about her experiences with depression and the challenges of shedding her child star image. The pansexual singer and actress faced intense media scrutiny that exacerbated her anxiety. She has used her platform to launch a foundation that supports LGBTQ+ youth and those in crisis. Miley practices yoga and sobriety to maintain a balanced life.

Lady Gaga

While primarily a music icon, Lady Gaga has built a significant acting career with roles in ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘A Star Is Born’. She suffers from PTSD and depression stemming from a sexual assault early in her career. The bisexual star utilizes medication and dialectical behavior therapy to manage her chronic pain and emotional trauma. She co-founded the Born This Way Foundation to support mental wellness in young people.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie has faced bouts of depression and self-harm during her younger years. The bisexual actress and director has spoken about feeling a deep emptiness despite her success. She found healing through humanitarian work and motherhood. Her journey highlights the importance of finding purpose beyond professional achievements.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore overcame a turbulent childhood marked by substance abuse and institutionalization. The bisexual actress has managed depression and anxiety throughout her adult life. She often discusses the importance of setting boundaries and practicing self-care on her talk show. Drew serves as an inspiration for those recovering from addiction and early trauma.

Evan Rachel Wood

This actress has been a vocal advocate for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Evan Rachel Wood identifies as bisexual and has been diagnosed with PTSD following past abusive relationships. She has testified before Congress to secure rights for other survivors. Her activism is deeply rooted in her own journey toward mental health recovery.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne has openly shared her struggles with depression and anxiety with her social media followers. The pansexual actress also deals with dyslexia which affected her confidence growing up. She uses poetry and music as outlets for her emotional pain. Bella encourages her fans to embrace their imperfections and seek support.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato identifies as non-binary and queer and has been extremely transparent about their bipolar disorder diagnosis. The ‘Camp Rock’ star has survived overdoses and battles with bulimia. They have released documentaries detailing their recovery process and return to the spotlight. Demi remains a powerful voice for mental health advocacy in the music and film industry.

Shannon Purser

Best known for her role as Barb in ‘Stranger Things’, Shannon Purser has opened up about living with OCD and depression. She identifies as bisexual and has used Twitter to discuss her therapy sessions and medication. The actress aims to normalize the conversation around psychiatric medication. She wants young people to know they are not alone in their intrusive thoughts.

Stephanie Beatriz

The ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ star has discussed her history with disordered eating and severe anxiety. Stephanie Beatriz identifies as bisexual and has used her character Rosa Diaz to explore similar themes. She credits therapy with helping her navigate the pressures of being a Latina actress in Hollywood. Her honesty has resonated with many fans who struggle with body dysmorphia.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox has spoken about reaching a breaking point due to the sexualization she faced in the industry. The bisexual actress experienced a psychological breakdown that led her to retreat from the spotlight. She has since found spiritual practices that help her maintain her mental equilibrium. Megan now chooses roles that empower her rather than objectify her.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has written about her diagnosis of bipolar disorder and her journey to find the right medication. The actress identifies as bisexual and has detailed her experiences in a collection of essays. She emphasizes that mental illness is a manageable condition rather than a life sentence. Maria continues to work steadily while prioritizing her health.

Heather Matarazzo

This ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’ actress has been candid about her battle with suicidal thoughts and depression. Heather Matarazzo identifies as a lesbian and has spoken about the difficulty of not fitting traditional beauty standards. She underwent therapy to rebuild her self-worth and love for herself. Her story is a testament to resilience in the face of rejection.

Tig Notaro

Comedian and actress Tig Notaro faced a series of traumatic events including cancer and the death of her mother. She uses her stand-up comedy to process her grief and health struggles. Tig is a lesbian who has found happiness in her marriage and family life. Her dry humor provides a unique perspective on dealing with life-threatening illness.

Hannah Gadsby

Australian comedian and storyteller Hannah Gadsby has discussed her diagnosis of autism and ADHD. She identifies as a lesbian and uses her shows to deconstruct her trauma and experiences with homophobia. Her work challenges the traditional narrative of comedy as a deflection tool. Hannah advocates for neurodiversity and better understanding of mental health spectra.

Lena Waithe

Screenwriter and actress Lena Waithe has been open about her experiences with therapy and couples counseling. She identifies as a lesbian and emphasizes the importance of black mental health. Lena believes that discussing emotional struggles is crucial for breaking generational trauma. She uses her writing to explore complex human emotions and relationships.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg identifies as gay and non-binary and has spoken about their struggle with anxiety. The ‘The Hate U Give’ star has taken breaks from smartphones to protect their mental peace. They advocate for self-preservation in the age of social media. Amandla believes in the power of saying no to professional demands to maintain sanity.

Rowan Blanchard

This young actress has been open about her depression and the pressure to be a role model. Rowan Blanchard identifies as queer and has used her platform to discuss intersectional feminism and mental health. She writes essays and poetry to articulate her feelings of sadness and isolation. Rowan encourages her peers to validate their own emotions.

Lili Reinhart

The ‘Riverdale’ star has been a fierce advocate for body positivity and mental health awareness. Lili Reinhart identifies as bisexual and has discussed her ongoing battle with depression and anxiety. She often shares her bad days on social media to show that celebrity life is not perfect. Lili believes in the healing power of vulnerability.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron has shared her experiences with trauma, anxiety, and anorexia. The queer actress has spoken about the loss of her father and its lasting impact on her mental health. She uses music to process her complex emotions and connect with her fans. Dove promotes therapy as a necessary tool for survival and growth.

Mara Wilson

Former child star Mara Wilson has written extensively about her diagnosis of OCD, anxiety, and depression. She identifies as bisexual and has retired from mainstream acting to focus on writing. Mara advocates for the protection of child actors and their mental well-being. Her memoir offers a candid look at growing up with mental illness in the public eye.

Alyson Stoner

Alyson Stoner has documented her journey through rehab for eating disorders and anxiety. The pansexual actress and dancer creates content that focuses on mindfulness and mental wellness. She explores the connection between the mind and body in her movement workshops. Alyson is dedicated to helping others heal from industry-related trauma.

Gillian Anderson

Gillian Anderson has struggled with bouts of depression and panic attacks throughout her career. The bisexual actress has written about her path to self-acceptance and mental balance. She practices meditation and exercises regularly to manage her symptoms. Gillian encourages women to speak openly about their mental health needs.

Holland Taylor

Veteran actress Holland Taylor has discussed her struggles with depression and the benefit of medication. She is in a long-term relationship with Sarah Paulson and has spoken about the joy of finding love later in life. Holland believes that mental health treatment should be accessible and destigmatized for older adults. Her vitality proves that happiness is possible at any age.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness after her own battles with depression. The lesbian comedian and actress uses her platform to discuss the effects of trauma and stress. She emphasizes the importance of medication and therapy in her daily routine. Rosie often speaks about the need for better mental health care systems.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch has written about her history of alcoholism and the anxiety that fueled her addiction. The lesbian actress has been sober for many years and credits this change with saving her life. She advocates for recovery programs and open discussions about substance abuse. Jane finds peace in her work and her stable home life.

Margaret Cho

Comedian Margaret Cho has been open about her past struggles with substance abuse and eating disorders. She identifies as bisexual and uses her comedy to address issues of race, sexuality, and mental health. Margaret believes that laughter can be a powerful form of healing. She continues to tour and share her survivor story with audiences.

Amber Heard

Amber Heard has discussed the anxiety and trauma she experienced during highly publicized legal battles. The bisexual actress has spoken about the toll that public scrutiny takes on mental well-being. She advocates for the rights of women and survivors of abuse. Amber focuses on her daughter and her personal healing away from the cameras.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has opened up about her struggles with anxiety and depression while navigating fame. The sexually fluid actress uses her social media to share inspirational messages and reality checks. She believes in the importance of spiritual grounding and self-love. Keke encourages her fans to define their own worth independent of external validation.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe identifies as pansexual and has discussed the anxiety of living as a black queer woman in America. The actress and singer experienced mercury poisoning which also impacted her health and well-being. She uses science fiction themes in her art to explore identity and liberation. Janelle advocates for therapy as a tool for marginalized communities.

Mae Martin

Mae Martin is a non-binary comedian and actor who created the show ‘Feel Good’ about addiction and relationships. They identify as bisexual and have been sober for several years. Mae discusses the complexities of addictive behaviors and gender dysphoria in their work. Their storytelling provides a nuanced look at recovery and queer love.

Paris Jackson

The daughter of Michael Jackson has been candid about her struggles with depression and self-harm. Paris Jackson identifies as queer and has sought treatment for her mental health issues. She uses music and modeling as outlets for her creativity and emotions. Paris advocates for peace and self-acceptance among her generation.

Jameela Jamil

Jameela Jamil has been a loud voice against diet culture and its impact on mental health. The queer actress struggled with anorexia and body dysmorphia for many years. She founded the ‘I Weigh’ movement to encourage people to value themselves beyond their appearance. Jameela also manages Ehlers-Danlos syndrome which affects her physical and mental state.

Willow Smith

Willow Smith has opened up about her history of self-harm and severe anxiety during her early teens. The bisexual singer and actress discusses these topics on ‘Red Table Talk’ to help others. She practices yoga and meditation to maintain her mental clarity. Willow believes in facing one’s darkness to find true light.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp has shared her past struggles with anorexia and the difficulty of recovering in the public eye. The sexually fluid actress credits her family with supporting her through her health crisis. She focuses on maintaining a healthy relationship with food and her body. Lily-Rose protects her privacy to safeguard her mental well-being.

Ashley Benson

Ashley Benson has discussed the anxiety she feels due to paparazzi presence and social media. The pansexual actress has experienced panic attacks and strives to keep her private life separate from her work. She advocates for authenticity and kindness online. Ashley finds comfort in her close circle of friends and family.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons has bravely shared her diagnosis of bipolar disorder with the public. The queer actress experienced episodes of psychosis before finding the right treatment plan. She speaks about the relief of finally understanding her own mind. Kiersey aims to represent black queer women living successfully with mental illness.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has discussed the loneliness and emotional breakdowns she has experienced in her personal life. The queer actress creates characters that often grapple with complex internal worlds. She advocates for therapy and open communication in relationships. Tessa believes that vulnerability is a strength rather than a weakness.

Devery Jacobs

Devery Jacobs identifies as queer and Indigenous and has spoken about the mental toll of code-switching. She attended therapy to reconcile the different versions of herself she felt forced to present. The actress advocates for Indigenous rights and representation in media. Devery finds strength in her community and her cultural identity.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat has opened up about the anxiety and excess emotion she felt upon turning thirty. The bisexual actress uses painting and the arts to process her internal struggles. She has spoken about the pressure of growing up on television sets. Alia values solitude and introspection as part of her self-care routine.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has discussed the anxiety she felt about being closeted during the early years of her career. The lesbian actress and director feared that coming out would end her opportunities in Hollywood. She now lives openly and creates LGBTQ+ inclusive content. Clea finds that living authentically has significantly improved her mental health.

Sara Gilbert

Sara Gilbert has used her platform on ‘The Talk’ to discuss her experiences with anxiety and depression. The lesbian actress and producer advocates for medication and therapy as standard healthcare. She shares her stories to help other parents and professionals feel less alone. Sara prioritizes balance between her career and her family life.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is a breast cancer survivor who has discussed the anxiety associated with serious illness. The queer actress and activist also advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and women’s health. She believes that political engagement can be a form of empowerment against helplessness. Cynthia encourages women to be proactive about their physical and mental care.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin has dealt with undisclosed health issues that have affected her mobility and speech. The bisexual actress has spoken about the need to manage stress and protect her privacy during recovery. She continues to work on independent films that challenge her artistically. Anna remains a resilient figure who adapts to life’s physical and emotional hurdles.

Share your thoughts on these stories and your own experiences with mental health in the comments.