Young Actresses Who Had Mental Health Problems

The pressures of the entertainment industry often take a significant toll on the mental well being of performers who start their careers at a young age. Many actresses have stepped forward to share their personal experiences with anxiety and depression or other psychological challenges. These public disclosures help to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage fans to seek support. By discussing their journeys openly these women use their influence to promote a culture of healing and empathy. The following list highlights several prominent actresses who have navigated mental health problems while working in Hollywood.

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has been very vocal about her diagnosis of bipolar disorder and her experiences with anxiety and depression. The actress and singer spent time in treatment facilities to focus on her mental health while managing the physical effects of lupus. She starred in ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ before moving into more mature roles and production work. Through her Rare Impact Fund she aims to increase access to mental health services for young people globally. Her transparency has helped many fans feel less alone in their own struggles with similar conditions.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato started her career as a child star on ‘Barney and Friends’ before becoming a household name through ‘Camp Rock’ on the Disney Channel. She has shared her journey with bipolar disorder and eating disorders as well as her history of substance abuse. The performer has released several documentaries that chronicle her recovery process and the challenges of staying sober in the public eye. She continues to advocate for mental health reform and provides resources for those seeking help with addiction. Her story serves as a powerful example of resilience and the ongoing nature of mental wellness.

Sophie Turner

Sophie Turner rose to international fame playing Sansa Stark in the hit series ‘Game of Thrones’ at a very young age. She has opened up about her struggles with depression and body image issues that were exacerbated by social media scrutiny. The actress found that therapy and medication were essential tools in managing her mental health during the height of her career. She often speaks about the importance of taking breaks from the industry to prioritize personal well being. Turner continues to be a prominent voice for mental health awareness in the United Kingdom and the United States.

Lili Reinhart

Lili Reinhart is well known for her role as Betty Cooper in the television series ‘Riverdale’. She has been incredibly transparent about her lifelong battle with depression and anxiety. Reinhart uses her social media platforms to discuss the reality of mental health struggles and the importance of professional therapy. She has stated that she wants to normalize the conversation so that others do not feel ashamed of their feelings. Her honesty has earned her praise from fans and mental health advocates alike.

Zendaya

Zendaya began her career on the Disney Channel show ‘Shake It Up’ and has since become an award winning actress in ‘Euphoria’. She has spoken about experiencing high levels of anxiety and the pressure to be perfect in a demanding industry. The actress credits her family and a strong support system for helping her stay grounded and focused on her health. She has also discussed how the themes of mental illness and addiction in her work have helped her understand these issues more deeply. Zendaya remains one of the most influential young voices advocating for self care and boundaries.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron is a former Disney star who has been open about her experiences with depression and post traumatic stress disorder. She lost her father at a young age and has discussed how that trauma impacted her mental health as she grew up in the spotlight. The ‘Descendants’ actress often shares poetic and honest reflections about her healing process with her followers. She advocates for radical authenticity and encourages her fans to embrace their true emotions. Cameron continues to balance a successful music and acting career while prioritizing her psychological well being.

Amanda Bynes

Amanda Bynes was a major comedic star on ‘The Amanda Show’ and in films like ‘She is the Man’ before facing significant mental health challenges. Her public struggles led to a long term conservatorship and a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The actress took a significant hiatus from the entertainment industry to focus on her recovery and education. She has since used social media to provide occasional updates on her progress and her interest in fashion design. Her journey remains a poignant reminder of the intense pressure faced by child stars.

Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan became a teen icon after starring in ‘The Parent Trap’ and ‘Mean Girls’. The intense media attention and personal pressures led to a series of mental health and substance abuse issues that were widely documented. Lohan spent several years in and out of rehabilitation facilities as she sought to regain control of her life. She eventually moved abroad to find a sense of peace away from the paparazzi and has recently returned to acting. Her comeback highlights the possibility of finding stability after years of public and private turmoil.

Jennette McCurdy

Jennette McCurdy starred in the popular Nickelodeon series ‘iCarly’ during her teenage years. She recently released a memoir detailing her struggles with eating disorders and the complex relationship she had with her mother. McCurdy has been very candid about the OCD and anxiety she experienced while trying to maintain a perfect public image. She eventually chose to leave acting to pursue writing and directing which allowed her to heal on her own terms. Her story has resonated with many people who have experienced childhood trauma and career pressure.

Mischa Barton

Mischa Barton rose to fame as the star of the teen drama ‘The OC’ but found the sudden spotlight difficult to manage. She dealt with a high profile mental health crisis that led to an involuntary psychiatric hold in the year 2009. The actress has spoken about the immense pressure placed on young women in Hollywood and the lack of support systems available at the time. She eventually took a break from the industry to focus on her recovery and personal stability. Her experience remains a notable example of the consequences of early stardom without adequate mental health safeguards.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone experienced severe panic attacks and anxiety when she was a young child. She used acting as a therapeutic outlet to manage her fears and social concerns before becoming a successful actress. Stone has worked with organizations like the Child Mind Institute to share her story and help children who struggle with similar issues. She appeared in ‘Easy A’ and ‘La La Land’ while maintaining a focus on her mental wellness. Her success demonstrates how individuals can manage chronic anxiety while pursuing demanding professional goals.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart became a global superstar after leading ‘The Twilight Saga’ as Bella Swan. She has spoken about the debilitating anxiety she felt during the height of the franchise’s popularity and the constant media intrusion. The actress struggled with the sudden loss of privacy and the pressure to conform to industry expectations. Over time she has learned to navigate her career by choosing independent roles and setting firm boundaries with the public. Stewart now speaks about her past anxiety as a period of growth that helped her find her true identity.

Hayden Panettiere

Hayden Panettiere is best known for her roles in ‘Heroes’ and the musical drama series ‘Nashville’. She was very public about her battle with postpartum depression following the birth of her daughter. The actress sought professional treatment and took leaves of absence from her work to prioritize her recovery. She has also discussed her struggles with substance use as a way to cope with her mental health challenges. Her openness has been credited with helping to reduce the stigma surrounding the difficulties of motherhood.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne started her career as a child model and actress on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’. She has been open about her struggles with dyslexia and the anxiety that comes with being a public figure. Thorne often uses her platform to discuss mental health and the importance of being honest about one’s struggles. She has also talked about the trauma of her childhood and how it has affected her adult life. The actress continues to work across various media while advocating for mental health awareness.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus transitioned from being the star of ‘Hannah Montana’ to a global pop and film icon. She has discussed experiencing periods of deep depression and anxiety as she navigated her changing public image. The performer has emphasized the importance of therapy and finding creative outlets to process her emotions. She also founded the Happy Hippie Foundation to support vulnerable youth including those facing mental health issues. Cyrus continues to be a vocal proponent of living authentically and prioritizing mental well being.

Chloë Grace Moretz

Chloë Grace Moretz began acting as a child and has appeared in films like ‘Kick-Ass’ and ‘The Misfits’. She has spoken about the body dysmorphia she experienced due to being in the public eye and seeing herself in memes. The actress sought therapy to deal with the anxiety and self consciousness caused by online scrutiny. She took a short break from acting to reevaluate her career and focus on her personal health. Moretz now advocates for more responsible media representation of young women and their bodies.

Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande is a former Nickelodeon actress who transitioned into a massive career in music and film. She has been very open about the post traumatic stress disorder she developed following the bombing at her concert in Manchester. Grande also struggles with anxiety and has shared screenshots of brain scans to show the physical impact of trauma. She uses her music and social media presence to encourage fans to seek therapy and take their mental health seriously. Her vulnerability has made her a relatable figure for many young people dealing with trauma.

Willow Smith

Willow Smith has grown up in the spotlight as the daughter of famous parents and through her own music and acting. She has spoken about her history of self harm during her early teen years after the success of her debut single. Smith discussed her mental health journey on the show ‘Red Table Talk’ to help other young people feel less alone. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and spiritual practices in maintaining her emotional balance. Her story highlights that even those with significant resources can struggle with mental health during their youth.

Elle Fanning

Elle Fanning started acting as a toddler and has starred in ‘The Great’ and ‘Maleficent’. She has discussed the anxiety she feels when preparing for roles and the pressure to succeed at a young age. The actress emphasizes the importance of having a supportive family to help her navigate the ups and downs of the industry. She has also spoken about the value of therapy in managing the stresses of her professional and personal life. Fanning continues to be a respected figure in Hollywood who values her mental well being.

Camila Mendes

Camila Mendes rose to fame playing Veronica Lodge in the series ‘Riverdale’. She has been very public about her history with eating disorders and the pressure to maintain a certain body type in Hollywood. The actress works with various organizations to promote body positivity and healthy relationships with food. She has stated that therapy was instrumental in her recovery and in managing the anxiety of fame. Mendes remains committed to sharing her story to help others struggling with similar issues.

Sarah Hyland

Sarah Hyland is best known for her role as Haley Dunphy on the sitcom ‘Modern Family’. She has struggled with chronic health issues and multiple kidney transplants which led to periods of deep depression and suicidal thoughts. The actress has spoken about the mental toll of being physically ill while working on a major television show. She credits her friends and family for supporting her through her darkest moments and helping her find a reason to keep going. Hyland now uses her platform to raise awareness for both physical and mental health challenges.

Madelaine Petsch

Madelaine Petsch plays Cheryl Blossom on the television series ‘Riverdale’. She has discussed her struggles with severe social anxiety and the panic attacks she experienced before her career took off. The actress found that maintaining a routine and practicing self care were vital for her mental health. She often shares her wellness tips and mental health journey on her popular YouTube channel to help her fans. Petsch is a strong advocate for therapy and for being open about the less glamorous sides of life.

Ariel Winter

Ariel Winter grew up on the set of ‘Modern Family’ and faced intense public scrutiny regarding her appearance. She has been open about the anxiety and depression she experienced as a result of online bullying and family issues. Winter sought professional help and has spoken about the benefits of medication and therapy in stabilizing her life. She eventually moved away from the spotlight to attend college and focus on her personal growth. Her journey reflects the resilience required to overcome childhood fame and public judgment.

Kiernan Shipka

Kiernan Shipka began her career as a child actress on ‘Mad Men’ before starring in ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. She has discussed the importance of setting boundaries to prevent the stresses of the industry from impacting her mental health. The actress practices meditation and other grounding techniques to manage the anxiety of her busy schedule. She emphasizes that mental health should be a priority for everyone regardless of their level of success. Shipka remains a prominent example of a child star who has transitioned into a healthy adult career.

Millie Bobby Brown

Millie Bobby Brown became a household name at a young age through her role in ‘Stranger Things’. She has been open about the anxiety she faces due to the immense pressure of fame and the negativity she encounters online. The actress has deleted social media accounts in the past to protect her mental health and focus on her well being. She continues to advocate for kindness and against online bullying which she cites as a major factor in her own struggles. Brown uses her global platform to speak on behalf of children’s rights and mental health support.

Florence Pugh

Florence Pugh is a critically acclaimed actress known for her roles in ‘Midsommar’ and ‘Little Women’. She has discussed the anxiety she felt when she was pressured to change her physical appearance for early roles in her career. The actress decided to push back against industry standards to protect her mental health and body image. She often speaks about the importance of being true to oneself and the impact of public opinion on a person’s psyche. Pugh is celebrated for her authenticity and her commitment to maintaining her mental wellness.

Maisie Williams

Maisie Williams grew up in the public eye playing Arya Stark in ‘Game of Thrones’. She has shared her experiences with low self esteem and the negative impact that social media comments had on her mental health. The actress found it difficult to separate her identity from her famous character during her teenage years. She has since focused on creative projects that make her happy and has spoken about the benefits of therapy. Williams now encourages others to be mindful of their social media usage and to prioritize their internal happiness.

Dakota Fanning

Dakota Fanning was one of the most successful child actresses of her generation with roles in ‘I Am Sam’ and ‘War of the Worlds’. She has spoken about the anxiety and pressure that comes with being the primary provider for a family at a young age. Fanning has managed to maintain a stable career by staying grounded and keeping her private life away from the tabloids. She emphasizes the importance of having interests outside of acting to maintain a balanced perspective on life. The actress continues to work steadily while advocating for the protection of young performers.

Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld received an Oscar nomination as a teenager for her role in ‘True Grit’. she has discussed the challenges of balancing a dual career in music and acting while managing her mental health. The actress has spoken about experiencing burnout and the anxiety of constantly being in the spotlight. She relies on her close knit family and a small circle of friends to help her navigate the industry. Steinfeld continues to use her music to express her feelings and connect with fans who might be going through similar struggles.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi is the star of ‘Black-ish’ and ‘Grown-ish’ and is known for her activism and academic pursuits. She has spoken about the perfectionism and anxiety she feels as a young person in a high pressure environment. The actress advocates for taking the time to pause and reflect on one’s mental state amidst a busy schedule. She often discusses the intersection of mental health and social justice on her various platforms. Shahidi remains a leading voice for her generation on the importance of holistic well being.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg rose to fame in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since become a prominent actress and activist. She has been open about her struggles with identity and the anxiety that comes with being a public figure. Stenberg has taken breaks from social media to preserve her mental health and focus on her personal development. She emphasizes the need for self reflection and the importance of finding a supportive community. The actress continues to choose roles that reflect her values and her commitment to mental wellness.

Kathryn Newton

Kathryn Newton has appeared in ‘Big Little Lies’ and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’. She has discussed the performance anxiety she feels both on set and during her time as a competitive golfer. The actress finds that staying active and focusing on her hobbies helps her manage the stresses of her professional life. She has spoken about the importance of mental toughness and the need to seek help when things become overwhelming. Newton continues to be a rising star who prioritizes her emotional and physical health.

Margaret Qualley

Margaret Qualley is an actress and dancer known for her roles in ‘Maid’ and ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. She has spoken about experiencing panic attacks and the high levels of anxiety she felt during the early stages of her career. The actress uses her background in dance as a way to process her emotions and stay grounded. She has discussed the value of therapy in helping her navigate the complexities of fame and family life. Qualley remains dedicated to her craft while being mindful of her mental health needs.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy became a major star following her role in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. She has spoken about being bullied as a child and the long term impact that had on her mental health and self esteem. The actress has discussed the isolation she felt while moving between different countries and the anxiety of fitting in. She found that acting provided a safe space for her to explore different emotions and build her confidence. Taylor-Joy continues to be open about her past struggles to inspire others who may feel like outsiders.

Joey King

Joey King has been acting since she was a small child and starred in the series ‘The Act’. She has discussed the anxiety she felt while taking on intense and emotionally demanding roles. The actress emphasizes the importance of decompressing after a day on set and maintaining a healthy work life balance. She has also spoken about the pressures of social media and the need to protect one’s mental space from online negativity. King remains a successful young actress who is vocal about the importance of self care.

Sydney Sweeney

Sydney Sweeney is known for her roles in ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The White Lotus’. She has spoken about her struggles with social anxiety and the panic she sometimes feels in large crowds or at public events. The actress has shared that she works hard to overcome these fears while maintaining a busy filming schedule. She also discusses the financial pressures and the stress of being a young entrepreneur in the entertainment industry. Sweeney’s honesty about her struggles has made her a relatable figure for many of her fans.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer is a model and actress who gained fame for her role in the series ‘Euphoria’. She has spoken about her experiences with depression and the unique challenges faced by transgender youth. The actress uses her platform to advocate for better mental health resources for the LGBTQ community. She has discussed how her artistic pursuits help her process her feelings and navigate her mental health journey. Schafer remains an important voice for authenticity and mental health awareness.

Alexa Demie

Alexa Demie is an actress and singer known for her role in ‘Euphoria’. She has spoken about the importance of protecting her energy and her mental health in a fast paced industry. The actress has discussed experiencing anxiety and the need for periods of solitude to recharge. She often emphasizes the value of self reflection and the practice of mindfulness in her daily life. Demie continues to be a private person who prioritizes her personal well being over public exposure.

Barbie Ferreira

Barbie Ferreira rose to prominence through her role in ‘Euphoria’ and her work as a model. She has been open about her struggles with body dysmorphia and the mental toll of industry standards. The actress advocates for body neutrality and the importance of mental health support for young people. She has discussed using therapy to help her navigate the sudden fame and the pressures of the entertainment world. Ferreira remains a vocal proponent for diverse representation and mental health advocacy.

Maude Apatow

Maude Apatow appears in the series ‘Euphoria’ and has grown up in a prominent Hollywood family. She has spoken about the anxiety she feels regarding her career and the pressure to live up to her family’s legacy. The actress has discussed the importance of finding her own path and the role of therapy in her life. She emphasizes that having a supportive environment is crucial for maintaining mental wellness. Apatow continues to build her own identity while being honest about her emotional challenges.

Billie Lourd

Billie Lourd is an actress known for ‘Scream Queens’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She has been very public about the mental health struggles associated with the sudden loss of her mother and grandmother. The actress has discussed the importance of grieving openly and seeking professional help for depression. She often uses humor as a coping mechanism and to share her journey with her followers. Lourd continues to advocate for mental health awareness in honor of her family’s legacy.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood began her career as a child and has starred in ‘Thirteen’ and ‘Westworld’. She has been a vocal advocate for survivors of domestic abuse and has spoken about her diagnosis of post traumatic stress disorder. The actress has shared her experiences with depression and her journey toward healing through therapy and activism. She uses her platform to push for legislative changes and better support systems for those with mental health issues. Wood remains a powerful voice for resilience and recovery in the face of trauma.

Mary-Kate Olsen

Mary-Kate Olsen was a massive child star who faced intense public scrutiny throughout her youth. She sought treatment for an eating disorder and related mental health issues in the year 2004. The actress and fashion designer has since moved away from acting to focus on her business ventures and personal life. She has emphasized the need for privacy and the challenges of growing up in the spotlight without a sense of self. Her journey is often cited as a cautionary tale about the impact of early fame on a young person’s psyche.

Ashley Olsen

Ashley Olsen shared the spotlight with her sister from a very young age and faced similar pressures. While she has been more private about her personal life she has discussed the stress and burnout associated with her early career. The transition from child star to successful business owner required a focus on mental health and setting firm boundaries. She and her sister have both prioritized their well being by stepping back from the acting world. Ashley remains a respected figure in the fashion industry who values a low profile for her mental health.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore had a highly publicized struggle with mental health and substance abuse as a child star following ‘ET the Extra Terrestrial’. She was placed in a psychiatric facility at the age of thirteen and eventually sought emancipation from her parents. Barrymore has written extensively about her journey to recovery and the importance of self forgiveness. She has successfully rebuilt her career as an actress and talk show host while maintaining her mental wellness. Her life story is an inspiring example of overcoming early life trauma to find long term stability.

Keira Knightley

Keira Knightley became a global star in her teens with roles in ‘Bend It Like Beckham’ and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. She has spoken about having a mental breakdown at the age of twenty two due to the pressures of fame and constant criticism. The actress took a year off to focus on her health and was eventually diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder. She has since been careful about the projects she chooses and how she interacts with the media. Knightley continues to advocate for better mental health support within the film industry.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman began her career at age twelve and has won an Academy Award for ‘Black Swan’. She has spoken about the depression and isolation she felt while attending Harvard University during the height of her fame. The actress has discussed the pressure to prove her intelligence and the mental toll of balancing a high profile career with academics. She emphasizes the importance of seeking help and having a strong community of friends and family. Portman remains a dedicated advocate for education and mental health awareness.

Anne Hathaway

Anne Hathaway has been a prominent actress since her breakout role in ‘The Princess Diaries’. She has spoken about the anxiety and depression she experienced early in her career due to intense public scrutiny and online negativity. The actress has discussed how she learned to cope with fame through therapy and by focusing on her personal happiness. She emphasizes the importance of kindness to oneself and others in maintaining mental health. Hathaway continues to be a leading figure in Hollywood who is open about the emotional ups and downs of her journey.

Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence became a major star through ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘Silver Linings Playbook’. She has discussed the social anxiety she felt as a child and how acting helped her find a way to connect with others. The actress has spoken about the stress of the spotlight and the importance of having a life outside of the entertainment industry. She uses her platform to advocate for various social issues including mental health awareness. Lawrence remains one of the most successful actresses of her generation while prioritizing her mental well being.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne is a model and actress who has appeared in ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Paper Towns’. She has been very open about her struggles with deep depression and suicidal thoughts during her teenage years and early career. The actress has discussed how the pressure of the fashion industry impacted her mental health and led to a sense of isolation. She emphasizes the importance of being honest about one’s feelings and seeking professional help. Delevingne continues to use her influence to support mental health charities and promote self acceptance.

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