Christina Applegate Opens Up About Severe Depression Amid Multiple Sclerosis Battle

Actress Christina Applegate, widely recognized for her role as Kelly Bundy on the TV series “Married… with Children,” has candidly shared her emotional struggle as she battles multiple sclerosis (MS). In an episode of a podcast she co-hosts with fellow actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Applegate opened up about her experience with “severe depression,” expressing deep concern over her current state of mind. The episode, recorded earlier this year, highlights one of Applegate’s most challenging days, particularly her appearance at the Emmy Awards.

Applegate, 52, revealed, “Honestly, I don’t want to live. I don’t enjoy life. I don’t find joy in things anymore. When someone comes to me and lies down next to me in bed to talk, like you did recently or a friend did a few days ago, I feel comfortable with that. I enjoy it. But if someone invites me out for a walk or coffee, I say I don’t enjoy it,” she admitted.

Sigler, who is also living with MS, has been a supportive presence for Applegate. Sigler was diagnosed with the disease at the age of 20 and understands the emotional and physical toll it takes. She advised Applegate to avoid comparing her current state to her past.

“Living in a body with a disability is incredibly difficult. It’s very hard. I’m not going to take that away from you, and I’m here for you,” Sigler said. “But it’s even harder when you start comparing it to how things used to be. I still do that myself, but in moments when I accept it, things get a little better.

It eases some of the suffering I feel. Once you accept that this is how it is now, maybe even forever… For me, it’s not enough reason to stop living because I sit here across from you, and you still make me laugh like no one else can.”

Sigler emphasized the importance of not giving up. “I can’t let you give up, I just can’t. Do it for me. I hope this podcast shows you your value and how incredibly strong you are and that you deserve to give yourself a chance,” she added.

Applegate further described her current emotional state. “I’m in a depression right now, one I haven’t felt in years. It’s a ‘let it be’ kind of depression. It scares me a bit because it feels like it’s the end. You know I don’t usually say that, I don’t think that way, but I feel like I’m trapped in this darkness now, one I haven’t experienced in probably 20 years,” she explained. Applegate admitted that she had long avoided therapy to steer clear of facing her emotions directly.

“I’ve been avoiding therapy since my diagnosis because I’m really scared that once I start crying, I won’t be able to stop. I’m afraid that once my dams break, I won’t be able to contain it,” she added.

Applegate was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2021, a revelation that profoundly impacted her life. Despite her fears and the intense emotional battles, she continues to push forward, albeit with significant difficulty.

Sigler, who has lived with MS for over two decades, serves as a testament to resilience and understanding. Her advice to Applegate underscores the importance of acceptance and finding new ways to find joy and meaning in life, despite the limitations imposed by the disease. The bond between the two actresses highlights the vital role of support and empathy in navigating chronic illness.

Applegate’s honest discussion about her mental health and the challenges of living with MS sheds light on the often-overlooked emotional struggles faced by those with chronic illnesses. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health support and the need for compassion and understanding in the face of such debilitating conditions.

As she continues to grapple with her diagnosis and the accompanying depression, Applegate’s courage in sharing her journey provides a beacon of hope and solidarity for others facing similar battles. Her story emphasizes that, despite the darkness, the presence of supportive friends and the acceptance of one’s new reality can offer glimpses of light and reasons to keep moving forward.