Exploring Famous People With Depression & Other Mental Health Conditions

Who is the most famous depressed person?

Robin Williams may be the single most recognizable public figure associated with depression. In multiple interviews, Robin Williams has spoken candidly about his experiences with anxiety and emotional challenges, sharing how these struggles impacted his work and personal life. He was open about his battles with substance misuse and the pressures of fame, which led to periods of profound sadness and isolation that he once described as feeling cripplingly sad. At one point in his life, he faced overwhelming emotional pain, a burden that deeply affected his family and friends. Throughout his whole life, Robin Williams grappled with intense negative emotions, yet his desire to make others feel joy and laughter never faded. Robin Williams’s lifelong struggle illustrates that even those who appear joyful may face hidden battles.​ 

It is important to note that while Robin Williams spoke openly about his struggles with depression and anxiety, medical evaluations after his death revealed that he had been suffering from Lewy body dementia. This neurodegenerative disease can cause symptoms similar to depression and anxiety as well as hallucinations and cognitive decline. This condition may have significantly contributed to his mental state during the final years of his life.

Other famous people have discussed their experiences with clinical depression, including: 

Michelle Obama

The former First Lady of the United States said that she experienced “low-grade depression” (also called persistent depressive disorder or dysthymia) as a result of racial injustice and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Abraham Lincoln

Former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln battled clinical depression at a young age and off and on for his whole life. 

Winston Churchill

Winston Churchill, once Prime Minister of Great Britain, experienced mental health issues, often referred to as the so-called “Black Dog,” which may reference major depressive episodes. Sometimes, he described his depression as a dark cloud that would settle upon him. However, the depths of his struggles are disputed. 

Dwayne Johnson, also known as “The Rock” 

In multiple interviews, Johnson said that he’s experienced three bouts of deep depression throughout his whole life, starting at a young age. Since then, he’s learned that “asking for help is not a weakness.” 

Gwenyth Paltrow

Academy Award-winning actress and entrepreneur, Gwyneth Paltrow, says that she suffered postpartum depression after the birth of her second child. She stated that postpartum depression made her feel “like a zombie.” 

Lady Gaga, about depression and a suicide attempt

Lady Gaga spoke on depression and a suicide attempt. The pop star opened up about her struggle with mental health during interviews on CBS Sunday Morning and with Oprah Winfrey. She revealed that the pressures of fame and the death of close friends led her into her own spiral, marked by dark moods, use of drugs, and thoughts of ending her own life.

Whether famous or not, many people experience mental illnesses at some point. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), depression is the most common mental health condition in the U.S., with 14.8 million U.S. adults having at least one episode of major depressive disorder in 2020. World Suicide Prevention Day occurs in September and is a good opportunity to learn about suicide prevention resources, warning signs, and how to support loved ones at risk. 

Stories from other celebrities like Jim Carrey, the pop star Lady Gaga, and Bruce Springsteen serve as a friendly reminder that no one should feel ashamed of seeking therapy, medication, or support from family and friends. Their candour is living proof that treatment and connection are among the most important things we have in life.

What Hollywood stars are on antidepressants?

Famous people with depression who also take antidepressants

Many celebrities are choosing to open up about their mental health challenges, presenting themselves as human beings with real struggles. Some have recalled mornings when getting out of bed felt impossible prior to receiving treatment. In doing so, celebrities may help reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Here are a few Hollywood stars who have decided to talk about their experiences with antidepressants: 

Ben Affleck

A Grammy-winning actor, Affleck has dealt with chronic depression and substance abuse in his personal life. In a Good Morning America interview, Affleck stated, “I get depressed. I take antidepressants. They're very helpful to me. I’ve taken them since I was 26 years old, different kinds, I’ve switched and tried this and tried that.” 

Carrie Ann Inaba

The dancer from “Dancing with the Stars,” who can be seen smiling in Getty Images, has been open about her struggles with depression and the challenges she faced in finding the right medication, or antidepressant, which took some trial and error. After experiencing severe side effects, including vivid hallucinations of self-harm, she worked closely with her doctors to adjust her medication. Eventually, she found a treatment that helped stabilize her mood and improve her overall well-being.

Kristen Bell

Bell, a famous actor, has been taking antidepressants since she was a teenager. In an episode of The Off Camera Show, she explains, “If you do decide to go on a prescription to help yourself, understand that the world wants to shame you for that, but in the medical community, you would never deny a diabetic his insulin. Ever [...] It’s a very interesting double standard.”

Jon Hamm, of Mad Men, about therapy & his experience with mental illness

Ham, a famous actor for his role in Mad Men, has opened up in an interview with The Guardian about chronic depression, and how therapy and antidepressants have helped him go through it. After his mother’s death when he was a child, his father died a decade later. Hamm has spoken in interviews about how therapy and medication helped him cope with his chronic struggle.

Lady Gaga has openly discussed her battles with depression and eating disorders, revealing that the pressures of fame and relentless touring schedules once left her feeling numb and disconnected. She credits her close-knit family, steadfast friends, and evidence-based treatments, including therapy and medication, for helping her find a path to recovery.

Oprah Winfrey, talk-show icon, revealed in an interview that she experienced depression following the release of her film Beloved, describing it as feeling like she was "behind a veil." Meanwhile, on Saturday Night Live, comedian Pete Davidson has openly discussed his struggles with mental health, including borderline personality disorder, using humor to express how he continues to feel the impact of his condition.

Jim Carrey has spoken about his experiences with depression and the role of medication in his recovery.

Bruce Springsteen, who has detailed his long-term therapy and use of antidepressants, underscores that personal healing often involves therapy, lifestyle changes, and, where appropriate, prescription medications. 

For many people, finally finding a medication that works is what moves them from staying in bed all day to re‑engaging with work, hobbies, and relationships. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around one in 10 Americans over the age of 12 take antidepressants. 

What geniuses suffer from mental illness, have depression, and thoughts about suicide?

Throughout history, creativity and mental disorders appear to be linked. As stated by Aristotle, “There is no genius without having a touch of madness.” The following are famous geniuses who experienced depression: 

Sir Isaac Newton and his mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, depression, etc.

The mathematician and physicist, or “natural philosopher,” exhibited symptoms of depression, suicidal thoughts, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia-like psychosis. 

Ludwig van Beethoven

Beethoven, a classical composer from the 19th century, experienced episodes of depression and suicidal thoughts. He also experienced elated (manic) moods, which may have indicated the presence of bipolar disorder. 

Steve Jobs

Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc., experienced periods of depression that he detailed in his biography, Becoming Steve Jobs. 

Taken together, their mental health history reminds us that extraordinary intellect doesn’t grant immunity from emotional pain.

Where is the worst depression in the world?

According to a study at the University of Queensland, the Middle East and Northern Africa have the highest rates of depression around the world. 

Women coping with illnesses such as breast cancer often feel additional emotional weight, and global advocates point out that cancer care must include mental health screening, especially after a mother receives a breast cancer diagnosis that can shake the entire family structure. 

Are there successful people with depression, like Dwayne Johnson, Lady Gaga, Demi Lovato, etc? 

Absolutely. A large portion of high achievers have suffered from mental health challenges, including Dwayne Johnson, Lady Gaga, Michelle Obama, Abraham Lincoln, Kerry Washington, Demi Lovato, Brooke Shields, Michael Phelps, and Matthew Perry. According to some studies, a high proportion of successful people have depression or other mental health challenges. This is particularly common among entrepreneurs, athletes, and CEOs, which may be attributable to long work hours, competition, dichotomous thinking, and pressure to succeed. 

Actress Kerry Washington shared in interviews (including with publications like Billboard Magazine) that she has suffered panic attacks since college and relies on regular talk therapy to stay on point. Music icon Bruce Springsteen has openly suffered from depression throughout his life. He emphasizes that medications alone aren’t the solution; strong connections with family, close friends, and meaningful work are essential for long-term healing.

Has anyone ever gotten over depression?

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to depression. For some, depression is lifelong, whereas others may experience temporary depression or bouts that come and go. While depression cannot be “cured,” there are many treatment options that can help manage symptoms. Most people experience improvements in their symptoms with a combination of self-care, lifestyle changes, talk therapy, support groups, and/or medications. 

Many clients say that honest talk is the turning point. Memoirs by survivors such as singer-songwriter Bruce Springsteen describe how psychotherapy, finely-tuned medication, and daily coping habits can open the door to renewed life after years of struggle. Recovery usually means learning to manage symptoms so you can build the life you want and genuinely feel present.

Who was depressed in the Bible?

Multiple characters in the Bible are thought to have experienced episodes of depression, including Jesus, Abraham, Job, Jonah, Jeremiah, David, Moses, Judas, and Elijah. 

Scripture records that several figures suffered intense despair. Elijah even prayed for death, believing he had no life left, until comfort arrived through a nurturing, almost maternal messenger.

What is the world's no 1 antidepressant?

The most commonly prescribed antidepressant is Sertraline (SSRI), followed by Escitalopram (SSRI), Trazodone (SARI), Fluoxetine (SSRI), and Bupropion (NDRI). According to 2022 information from Definitive Healthcare, Sertraline accounts for 13.1% of mental health prescriptions. 

As with any health decision, never adjust medication without professional guidance; abrupt changes can make you feel worse and may raise the risk of suicide.

What race takes the most antidepressants?

According to findings from the 2015-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, antidepressant use was highest amongst non-Hispanic White adults (16.6%), followed by non-Hispanic Black Adults (7.8%), Hispanic adults (6.5%), and non-Hispanic Asian adults (2.8%). 

For more information on depression, see the following resource from the National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression. 

Why do famous people get depressed?

Fame doesn’t shield anyone from mental health issues. Celebrities may face intense public scrutiny, heavy work schedules, and constant pressure to keep up a certain image. Many also carry the same personal risk factors as anyone else: genetics, past trauma, relationship problems, or major life changes. Put together, those stresses can trigger or worsen depression, just like in any other walk of life.