The Taylor Swift documentary, “Miss Americana,” has sparked a lot of conversation as she opens up about her struggles with hate, shame, anxiety, and an eating disorder that reduced her to a size two. It’s a reminder that celebrities are human too. Anxiety isn’t new; many people, including celebrities, are now openly discussing mental health. A survey by the Mental Health Foundation reveals around three million people suffer from anxiety, according to the latest Psychiatric Morbidity Survey.
Taylor Swift, now 30, has faced a lot of criticism publicly, about being too annoying, too skinny, or looking pregnant. In the documentary directed by Lana Wilson, Swift shares how this scrutiny affected her, saying she disappeared from the public for about a year, thinking that’s what people wanted.
This reaction is relatable — wanting to hide away from the spotlight. Swift, with over twenty-one awards, surprised many by revealing this side of herself. Anxiety isn’t something everyone displays openly. In past relationships, Swift struggled with anxiety, feeling pressured to fight for respect. She mentions needing to deconstruct an entire belief system.
Swift’s career was defined by the expectation to be the ‘good girl’, enforced by industry executives who suggested that a ‘nice girl’ doesn’t push her opinions. This pressure led her to unhealthy habits, including self-starvation and almost passing out during performances. She felt the need to maintain an image others wanted from her, which took a significant toll, as shown in the documentary.
In her song “Out of the Woods,” Swift describes the fragility and uncertainty of her past relationship, fearing it wouldn’t last and questioning when it might turn into a mess. “Miss Americana” will be available in selected theaters and on Netflix from January 31st.
Sienna Miller, known for “Stardust” and “Layer Cake,” revealed she hasn’t used social media for over two years due to anxiety. When celebrities talk about anxiety, it’s easy to dismiss it as trendy, but anxiety and depression are very common. Anxiety UK notes that about 10% of the UK population will experience an anxiety disorder at some point. A British study found that one in six adults reported a mental health issue in the prior week.
Several factors can lead to an anxiety disorder, and it’s clear how widespread it is, no matter one’s background. Kendall Jenner has spoken openly about her anxiety, panic attacks, and sleep paralysis, worsened by her fear of falling asleep. Sleep paralysis is a condition where one is conscious but unable to move, sometimes accompanied by hallucinations, affecting about 8% of the population.
Adele, who emerged in the music scene in 2008, has struggled with anxiety about live performances. Despite not fully overcoming panic attacks, she manages her stage anxiety with her alter ego, “Sasha Carter,” inspired by Beyoncé and June Carter.
Kristen Bell, Anna’s voice in “Frozen,” is an active advocate for mental health awareness. She speaks candidly about her anxiety experiences and fights the stigma of mental illness. Her husband, Dax Sheppard, inspired her openness.
Ryan Reynolds, known for his role as Deadpool, disclosed his long-time struggle with anxiety, attributing his rapid wit to anxiety-induced defenses. He often stayed in character to counter his anxiety, a habit stemming from his relationship with his father.
Gina Rodriguez, star of “Jane the Virgin,” has been open about her panic attacks and the impact of depression on her life. Her transparency about mental health aims to break down stigmas, particularly in the Latino community, and encourage others to seek help.
These celebrities reveal how common anxiety is and the various ways they cope with it, reminding everyone that mental health struggles can affect people from all walks of life.