Broadway star Patti Murin opened up about mental health to fans in an Instagram post on Wednesday, explaining that she missed a recent show due to an anxiety attack.
“I’ve learned that these situations aren’t something to ‘deal with’ or ‘push through’,” Murin wrote. “Anxiety and depression are real diseases that affect so many of us.”
Murin, who plays Anna in the musical version of Disney’s Frozen, went on: “Even Disney princesses are terrified sometimes.”
Murin credited Disney with being supportive over the missed date, and the role was filled by stand-in Aisha Jackson.
Murin’s candor was met with praise from commenters who said the post helped them feel better about their own struggles with anxiety.
“I was hospitalized last September because of my anxiety – EKGs and blood work, the whole nine yards. So, thank you,” one commenter wrote. “Needed this reminder that it’s okay to not be okay.”
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 million Americans over the age of 18 are affected by anxiety – roughly 18% of the nation’s population.
Murin wrote that her attack “had been building up for a while”, and that all of the ups and downs and stress and excitement of starring in a broadway production “really takes a toll on my mental health”.
“Just remember that you’re not alone, your feelings are real, and this is not your fault.”
