Christina Applegate recently addressed the public’s concern over her candid remarks about not enjoying life due to her multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis. In a recent episode of her “MeSsy” podcast, co-hosted with Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Applegate opened up about her struggles with depression, which she described as a “real, fuck-it-all depression.” She admitted feeling trapped in a darkness she hadn’t experienced in over two decades, stating, “I don’t enjoy living. I don’t enjoy it. I don’t enjoy things anymore.”
However, in a new episode released on Tuesday, Applegate clarified her previous comments. She began the episode by asking Sigler to inquire about her well-being, responding with a sarcastic, “Oh my god, you guys, I’m so good. Isn’t that what everyone wants to hear? I’m good.” She explained that her earlier remarks were about the dark thoughts she was experiencing at the time. “This is our safe place to get things out because I feel like when we hold things in, we give them power,” she said.
Applegate emphasized the importance of expressing one’s feelings, even if it makes others uncomfortable. She believes that societal norms often pressure people to appear fine, which can be harmful. “There’s so much shame a lot of people feel when they’re going through mental health issues. It’s not a problem. It’s a moment. It’s a thought. It’s a feeling,” she said. By holding these feelings in, people give them immense power, she added.
The actress also addressed the concern and confusion that arose from her previous comments. She received numerous texts from worried friends and fans, which she found disturbing. “By making such a big deal about it, you’re making other people think, ‘Oh, shit, I can’t talk about this.’ And that is not OK with me,” she said. Applegate clarified that she is not on suicide watch and has never been. “I dare anyone to be diagnosed with MS or any kind of chronic illness that has taken who you were prior to that moment and go, ‘This is great.’ You know?” she challenged. She acknowledged that there are moments of feeling tired and not wanting to continue, but emphasized the importance of support from friends and expressing these feelings to release the pressure.
Applegate was diagnosed with MS in 2021, although she believes she had the disease for several years before her official diagnosis. In an interview with ABC News, she recalled experiencing symptoms like her leg buckling during the first season of “Dead to Me,” which she initially attributed to being tired or dehydrated. It wasn’t until the symptoms became more severe that she sought medical attention.
In their podcast, Applegate and Sigler, who was diagnosed with MS in 2001, discuss coping with the disease and other related topics. Sigler shared her own experiences with depression, revealing that she has had moments where she prayed not to wake up. “It just felt so daunting. It felt so scary. It felt so overwhelming,” she said. She agreed with Applegate that expressing these feelings is crucial for mental health.
Applegate’s comments have sparked a broader conversation about the stigma surrounding mental health issues and the importance of open dialogue. She hopes that by sharing her experiences, she can help others feel less alone and more empowered to speak about their struggles. “It’s incredibly healing and important to be able to express the thoughts, whether that makes someone uncomfortable or not,” she said.
The actress’s candidness has resonated with many, shedding light on the challenges faced by those living with chronic illnesses. Her message is clear: it’s okay not to be okay, and it’s essential to talk about it. By doing so, we can break the stigma and support each other through difficult times.
