Christina Applegate, known for her roles in shows like “Dead to Me” and “Friends,” has been open about the toll that her multiple sclerosis diagnosis has taken on her mental health. Despite initially announcing her diagnosis in August of 2021, Christina has since retreated from the spotlight and made limited public appearances. However, in a recent episode of her podcast with Jamie-Lynn Sigler, she revealed just how deep her struggles have been.
During the podcast episode, recorded in early 2024, Christina confessed to feeling “in a depression right now.” She described it as a “real [expletive] it all depression,” admitting that it was something she hadn’t experienced in years. The actress shared that the feelings were “really fatalistic” and that she felt as though she was “trapped in darkness” in a way she hadn’t felt in decades.
Acknowledging the severity of her mental health struggles, Christina revealed that she had taken the step of scheduling an appointment with her therapist. This decision was significant for her, as she admitted to avoiding therapy since her diagnosis out of fear of being overwhelmed by emotions. Despite her hesitation, she recognized the importance of seeking help during such a challenging time.
Christina’s emotional appearance at the 75th Annual Emmy Awards in January highlighted the emotional toll of living with multiple sclerosis in the public eye. While the star-studded audience offered her a standing ovation, Christina later described the day as “the hardest day” of her life. The intense schedule and emotional weight of the event left her physically and emotionally drained, needing days to recover.
Reflecting on her experience at the Emmy Awards, Christina shared that she resorted to self-deprecating humor as a way to cope with the overwhelming emotions and physical challenges she faced. She joked about being “shamed with disability” by the audience’s standing ovation, using humor to lighten the mood and make those around her feel more comfortable. Despite blacking out during her speech, she found solace in the laughter of her friends.
Christina Applegate’s candid revelations about her mental health struggles in the face of multiple sclerosis shed light on the reality of living with a chronic illness. Her openness about feelings of depression, fear, and the importance of seeking help serve as a reminder that it is okay not to be okay. By sharing her story, Christina encourages others facing similar challenges to prioritize their mental well-being and reach out for support when needed.