Riverdale star Lili Reinhart has not been shy about her mental health. Depression and anxiety really affected her life when she first moved to Los Angeles to pursue her acting career – which resulted in her having to move back home for a while to see a therapist and get back on track. While Lili is open about the obstacles she faces with mental illness, she feels that it’s something that really needs to be talked about more. That’s why she really commends Demi Lovato for the way she is driven to use her experiences to inspire other to stay strong.
“I know so many other young people have, and I didn’t have someone who was talking about it,” Lili said in an interview with Ocean Drive. “I remember being in middle and high school and hearing Demi Lovato speak up about her mental illness and that was comforting. But I wanted more people to stand up. I needed more people to relate to. I was like, all these people can’t be so happy, can they?”
If it weren’t for celebs like Lili and Demi sharing their truth, it might seem like stars live in these perfect little bubbles – which really isn’t true. They’re humans with real issues too.
“It was kind of like this unrealistic picture that was painted in front of me of all these happy, happy people, successful people, beautiful people,” Lili added. “And even now I’m on this wonderful show. I have money in my bank account. I have my own apartment. I have friends. I still go through and experience depression. You don’t have to be ashamed of it. You don’t need to ever justify the way you feel.”
Some of the internal struggles both Lili and Demi have experienced, like many others, are problems with body image. Just recently, Lili spoke out about combatting a body dysmorphic disorder related to acne, while Demi has lived with an eating disorder for most of her life. It’s really comforting to know you’re not alone in situations like this, and we’re glad Lili found strength in Demi’s story. Now she too can help another rising star or fan who might be dealing with something similar. Bravo for being so open and honest, ladies.
Watch: Riverdale Star Lili Reinhart Apologizes to Fans
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