This “Downton Abbey” star opened up about struggling with an eating disorder, and it’s beautifully inspiring
Too many of today’s stars struggle with body image issues. Demi Lovato has been outspoken about her past eating disorder, and Kesha opened up to Elle UK about her time in rehab. But with more celebrities talking about their private struggles, others are finally feeling comfortable coming forward. Now, Downton Abbey star Jessica Brown Findlay is discussing her own struggles with an eating disorder.
In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, she admitted, “I’ve had an eating disorder since I was 14.”
The 27-year-old actress decided to come forward when she realized that her voice, like so many others, could embolden those struggling to try and tackle their own issues.
“If you are lucky enough to speak and be heard, it might be something that could be useful to others,” she explained. “The more we have brave discussions like that, the easier it is to talk about things, and the less alone we can feel. It’s certainly made me feel less alone….I felt so alone for so long, and I just hid. And then I started talking and held my head up and instead of saying sorry decided to tell myself that I matter.”
How powerful is that?
Findlay also discussed entering into therapy to address her issues. She “[decided she] was going to help [herself] feel safe and good and healthy.”
She also realized that being thinner wasn’t going to change who she was.
“I’m not going to be a better actor if I’m a dress size smaller.”
Being skinny doesn’t make you kinder, smarter, or more talented than you already are.
We’re so glad for Findlay that she realized she’s amazing exactly the way that she is — and that she’ll continue to be amazing regardless of her size or appearance.
