Depression is a common mental illness and affects more than 18 million U.S. adults (1 in 10) in any given year, according to the Hope for Depression Research Foundation. More than 300 million people worldwide also struggle with depression.
Individuals of all ages, genders, races and socioeconomic status battle depression. In recent years, several well-known celebrities have opened up about their struggles with depression in an attempt to raise awareness and reduce stigma around the disease.
Here are 10 celebrities who have publicly shared about mental health struggles:
- Dwayne Johnson
- Katy Perry
- John Hamm
- Lady Gaga
- Kristen Bell
- Owen Wilson
- Mariah Carey
- Demi Lovato
- Wayne Brady
- Jim Carrey
As more public figures open up about mental health challenges, it promotes discussion about the topic and reduces stigma and shame.
Actor and Former Professional Wrestler Dwayne Johnson said he found “with depression, one of the most important things you can realize is that you’re not alone. You’re not the first to go through it, you’re not going to be the last to go through it.”
When celebrities share about mental illness, it can also normalize the concept of therapy or receiving mental health treatment. Singer Mariah Carey told People Magazine in 2018 that she sought treatment for bipolar disorder after being diagnosed in 2001.
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression or mental health, there are many organizations that provide free resources and education, including The National Alliance on Mental Health and The National Institute of Mental Health.