Mental Health

Amanda Bynes Breaks Silence on 20-Pound Weight Gain Amid Depression Battle

By Corazon Victorino | Update Date: Apr 04, 2024 10:33 PM EDT
Amanda Bynes

Backstage at The Heart Truth's Red Dress Collection Fashion Show during New York Fashion Week. February 13, 2009 at Bryant Park. | (Photo : The Heart Truth/Wikimedia Commons)

Amanda Bynes has recently taken to social media to share her struggles with mental health, revealing that her ongoing battle with depression has led to significant weight gain.

In a candid Instagram Story posted on March 28, the 37-year-old actress revealed, "I've gained over 20lbs in the past few months from being depressed."

Despite these challenges, the former child star expressed a sense of improvement in her mental well-being, stating, "I'm doing a lot better now and have learned to do opposite action when I don't feel like working out or eating clean," as per E! News.

Addressing her specific goals regarding physical fitness, Bynes shared her current weight of 162 lbs and her desire to return to 110 lbs.

Bynes, known for her roles in films such as "Hairspray" and "She's the Man," previously reflected on past experiences with body image insecurities and addiction.

Recounting her role in "She's the Man," Bynes described to Paper Magazine in 2018 the impact of her appearance on her mental well-being, revealing a deep depression that lasted for months after seeing herself on screen portraying a boy.

These struggles with body image eventually led to substance abuse, including addiction to Adderall, as Bynes sought to conform to societal standards of beauty.

Following tumultuous years marked by legal troubles and psychiatric hospitalization, Bynes embarked on a journey toward sobriety and self-discovery.

Meanwhile, her parents, in court documents, detailed concerns about her obsession with cosmetic surgery and its potential dangers to her health, according to People.

However, Bynes has since embraced a quieter life, focusing on her recovery and gradual return to the public eye.

By sharing her experiences with depression, weight gain and addiction on social media, the Hollywood star is shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals in the entertainment industry and beyond.

Her openness has also served as an inspiration to her fans struggling with mental health issues, as observed in the messages they leave on the actress' social media updates.

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