The new Taylor Swift documentary, “Miss Americana,” has everyone talking as she opens up about dealing with hate, shame, anxiety, and an eating disorder that left her extremely thin. She reminds us that celebrities are human too, facing similar mental health struggles as many of us. Anxiety isn’t a secret anymore, with a growing number of discussions on mental health, highlighting that even celebrities aren’t immune. A Mental Health Foundation survey estimates around three million people suffer from anxiety, according to the Psychiatric Morbidity Survey.
Among the many celebrities facing anxiety and panic attacks, Taylor Swift stands out. Since a young age, she has endured public scrutiny and criticism for everything from being “too annoying” to “looking pregnant.” In her new documentary directed by Lana Wilson, Swift confesses how deeply this criticism affected her, resulting in a year-long absence from the public eye, revealing, “No one physically saw me for a year.”
The feeling of hiding away may be all too familiar for many of us. It’s surprising to learn this about Swift, who radiates confidence and boasts over twenty-one awards. Despite appearances, Swift candidly shares her battles with anxiety, especially in relationships, saying she always felt like she was fighting for respect. The pressure to be seen as the “good girl,” a narrative enforced by executives, led to unhealthy behaviors and anxiety about never being enough, which eventually took a toll on her well-being.
As she shares in the documentary, she battled these feelings and once hinted at this in her song “Out of the Woods,” describing it as a fragile and tentative reflection of her anxieties about past relationships. “Miss Americana” will be available in select theaters and on Netflix from January 31st.
Meanwhile, actress Sienna Miller has confessed to avoiding social media for over two years due to anxiety, saying it’s a lot to open up your world to others. Dismissing celebrity anxiety can be tempting, but it’s essential to recognize that anxiety and depression are real and common issues, as shown by Anxiety UK reports and studies in Great Britain. Factors causing anxiety disorders span socio-economic spectrums.
Model Kendall Jenner has been vocal about her anxiety through various media, even discussing serious incidents like sleep paralysis and harassment experiences. Her openness about these struggles sheds light on broader mental health challenges, encouraging others to seek help.
Singer Adele also experienced anxiety, especially over live performances, but she found strength through an alter ego named Sasha Carter, inspired by Beyoncé and June Carter. This helped her confront her fears and continue performing. Actress Kristen Bell actively challenges mental health stigma, speaking openly about her experiences with anxiety and offering advice and support to others.
Ryan Reynolds, known for his humorous roles, has surprised many by revealing his lifetime battle with anxiety. His comedic persona, often maintained in professional settings, helps him manage his anxiety, attributed in part to his relationship with his father during childhood.
Gina Rodriguez has been honest about dealing with panic attacks and suicidal thoughts, particularly during challenging work periods. By sharing her journey and experiences, she aims to break down the stigma, especially within the Latino community, and encourage others to seek help.
These stories from celebrities highlight that anxiety is a shared human experience, prompting important conversations and awareness about mental health struggles.
