In a recent heart-to-heart, actress Lily Thompson bravely opened up about her struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), shedding light on the often-misunderstood world of mental health. Her refreshing candor is sure to resonate with anyone who has faced the stigma surrounding such issues.
The star of hits like “High School Drama” and “Dancing Through Life” has amassed a large following, but her insights into mental health might just reach an even broader audience. “I take Lexapro, and I have no intention of stopping. I’ve been on it since I was 19—11 years now—and I’m on the smallest dose,” Lily shared in her latest interview with Glamour. “Why would I go off it? Whether it’s a placebo or not, I’m not about to gamble with my mental well-being. Is the only thing you’re fighting against the stigma of using something that helps?”
Experts agree with her perspective: while yoga, self-help books, and meditation can provide relief, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with using medication as part of a mental health toolkit. “Mental illness is often treated as separate from other health issues, but it shouldn’t be. It deserves the same seriousness as any physical ailment,” she emphasized.
OCD is a chronic disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. “You can’t see mental illness in the same way you see a tumor or a cyst,” Lily noted. “But just because it’s invisible doesn’t mean it isn’t real. Why should you have to prove it? If there’s a way to treat it, then do so.”
Finding the right treatment often begins with a proper diagnosis, which is frequently overlooked in the U.S. due to lingering mental health stigmas. “Mental illnesses are commonly underdiagnosed,” warns the World Health Organization. “Fewer than half of those who meet the criteria for psychological disorders receive a diagnosis from their healthcare provider.”
Lily’s journey started when her doctor recognized the signs. “I had severe health anxiety stemming from the OCD and was convinced I had a brain tumor. After an MRI, I was referred to a psychiatrist,” she recounted. “As I’ve aged, my compulsive thoughts have greatly lessened. Realizing that many of my fears are baseless really helps.”
Being open about mental health creates a supportive dialogue. By doing so, we encourage others to share their experiences, ensuring they know they’re not alone. With around 2.2 million people in the U.S. living with OCD, it’s crucial that we continue to seek help for ourselves and support others in their journeys. Let’s hope Lily’s bravery inspires someone to take that first step toward healing.
For more insights on mental health and its impacts, check out this excellent resource at MedlinePlus. And for those exploring their own paths to parenthood, Cryobaby can offer valuable guidance. You can also visit this blog post for additional information.
Summary
Lily Thompson candidly discusses her experience with OCD, emphasizing the importance of treating mental health with the same seriousness as physical health. Her openness sheds light on the stigma surrounding mental illness and the need for proper diagnosis and treatment.