Black Actresses Who Battled Anxiety

Mental health visibility in Hollywood has grown significantly over the last decade as more celebrities open up about their internal struggles. Many prominent Black actresses have used their platforms to discuss their personal battles with anxiety and stress. These women share their stories to destigmatize mental illness and encourage others to seek help when they feel overwhelmed. Their vulnerability helps shift the narrative around the strong Black woman stereotype that often prevents honest conversations about wellness.

Taraji P. Henson

Known for her powerful roles in films like ‘Hidden Figures’, Henson has become a leading voice in mental health advocacy. She openly discusses her struggles with anxiety and depression to combat the stigma found in many communities. The actress founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation to provide resources and support for those dealing with mental health issues. Henson emphasizes the importance of therapy and checking in on friends even when they appear strong.

Kerry Washington

The star of ‘Scandal’ revealed in her memoir that she developed high-functioning anxiety at a young age. Washington described using food and perfectionism as coping mechanisms to manage her internal emotional turbulence. She realized that her panic attacks were a signal that she needed to address her suppressed feelings. Professional therapy and self-care routines helped her navigate the pressures of fame and personal trauma.

Zendaya

This former Disney Channel star and lead in ‘Euphoria’ has been very transparent about her battles with heavy anxiety. Zendaya experienced significant nervousness regarding live performances and public appearances which led her to step back from music. She manages her mental health by prioritizing days off and engaging in creative hobbies that allow her to disconnect. Her openness provides comfort to young fans who experience similar feelings of overwhelming pressure.

Viola Davis

An Academy Award winner for ‘Fences’, Davis has spoken candidly about the social anxiety she experienced throughout her life. She attributes much of her internal struggle to childhood trauma and the poverty she endured growing up. Davis uses her memoir to explain how she worked through her fears to find confidence in her identity. She advocates for self-forgiveness and understanding that fear is a natural part of the human experience.

Gabrielle Union

Union has shared her journey with anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder following a violent assault in her youth. The star of ‘Bring It On’ also detailed how perimenopause exacerbated her mental health symptoms later in life. She utilizes therapy to process her emotions and maintain her well-being while balancing a busy career. Her story highlights how trauma can manifest differently at various stages of life.

Tracee Ellis Ross

The lead actress of ‘Black-ish’ describes her anxiety as a feeling that her internal engine is running too fast. Ross practices specific breathing techniques and meditation to ground herself when she feels overwhelmed. She focuses on being present in the moment rather than worrying about future events she cannot control. Her approach to mental wellness centers on listening to her body and allowing herself space to rest.

Marsai Martin

Martin faced debilitating anxiety that stemmed from severe pain caused by a large ovarian cyst. The young ‘Black-ish’ actress documented her health scare to show other young women that they should trust their bodies. She explained that the physical pain triggered mental distress that made it difficult to function. Her recovery process involved both physical healing and addressing the emotional toll of the experience.

Keke Palmer

Palmer gained fame as a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and later faced anxiety and depression as she transitioned into adulthood. She described feeling like she was performing a version of herself rather than living authentically. The multi-talented entertainer uses journaling and meditation to manage her mental state. She encourages her fans to embrace their individuality rather than trying to fit into societal expectations.

Jenifer Lewis

Known as the Mother of Black Hollywood, Lewis has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and battles the anxiety that accompanies it. She wrote a book detailing her journey with sex addiction and mania to help others understand complex mental health conditions. The ‘Black-ish’ star manages her condition with medication and consistent therapy sessions. Her vibrant personality demonstrates that one can live a full and successful life while managing a mental illness.

Tessa Thompson

The ‘Creed’ actress participates in therapy to help manage the anxiety she feels regarding her public perception and career. Thompson believes that mental health care should be treated with the same importance as physical health care. She discusses how the pressure to represent her community can sometimes feel overwhelming. Open communication with her support system helps her maintain a healthy perspective on her fame.

Yara Shahidi

Shahidi experienced intense anxiety while trying to balance her acting career with her studies at Harvard University. The ‘Grown-ish’ star felt the need to be perfect in every aspect of her life which led to significant stress. She learned to set boundaries and say no to certain opportunities to protect her peace. Her journey illustrates the specific pressures placed on high-achieving young adults.

Cynthia Erivo

Erivo has discussed the anxiety she feels when performing in high-stakes roles like the one she played in ‘Harriet’. The Tony Award winner experienced panic attacks and physical symptoms of stress during demanding production schedules. She relies on fitness and running as a way to clear her mind and regulate her emotions. Erivo emphasizes that physical activity is a crucial component of her mental health regimen.

Amandla Stenberg

The ‘The Hate U Give’ star has dealt with panic attacks and anxiety since she was a teenager in the public eye. Stenberg takes medication to help manage her symptoms and speaks openly about the benefits of pharmaceutical intervention. She wants to normalize the conversation around medication for mental health to reduce shame. Her transparency helps other young people feel less alone in their treatment journeys.

Storm Reid

Reid partnered with mental health organizations to discuss the anxiety she feels as a young woman in the entertainment industry. The ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ actress practices mindfulness and positive affirmations to combat negative thoughts. She believes that social media can contribute to anxiety and often takes breaks from digital platforms. Her advocacy focuses on providing tools for Generation Z to handle modern stressors.

Laura Harrier

Harrier faced severe anxiety during the filming of ‘BlacKkKlansman’ due to the heavy subject matter of the movie. She sought therapy to help her separate her personal emotions from the trauma she portrayed on screen. The model and actress found that talking about her feelings prevented them from consuming her. She advocates for actors to have mental health support on set when dealing with difficult material.

Oprah Winfrey

Media mogul Winfrey experienced a nervous breakdown and anxiety symptoms during the height of her talk show career. She described feeling heart palpitations and a sense of impending doom due to overwork. Winfrey learned to prioritize balance and stillness to recover her mental equilibrium. She now uses her vast platform to produce content that explores mental health and emotional healing.

Halle Berry

Oscar winner Berry has discussed her struggles with anxiety and depression following traumatic relationships and career highs. She utilized therapy for decades to work through issues stemming from her childhood and public scrutiny. The ‘Monster’s Ball’ actress focuses on meditation and holistic health to maintain her mental clarity. Her resilience serves as an inspiration for women navigating difficult personal chapters.

Michaela Coel

The creator of ‘I May Destroy You’ channeled her personal trauma and anxiety into her critically acclaimed work. Coel experienced post-traumatic stress after an assault and used writing as a form of processing. She stepped away from the industry for a period to focus entirely on her mental recovery. Her art reflects the complex and non-linear journey of healing from psychological wounds.

If you have found inspiration in these stories or have your own experiences with anxiety to share, please leave your thoughts in the comments.