Emma Stone Opens Up About Her Lifelong Battle With Shyness & Panic Attacks

“It’s just the way I was wired,” she says.

Do you struggle with panic attacks and debilitating shyness? You’re not alone. Emma Stone, star of The Amazing Spiderman and La La Land, does too.

In a recent interview with Hollywood Reporter, she opened up about having been a nervous child. When she was 7-years-old, to help her cope with her mental illness, Emma’s parents put her in therapy.

It wasn’t until she got involved with an after school youth theatre that Emma began to feel more comfortable – escaping her fear by playing different characters and putting on performances. “It’s just the way I was wired,” she says. “Acting was the thing that made me fulfilled and happy.”

Young Emma in character during a youth theatre show.

Even as an adult, though, Emma stills struggles with anxiety in her work as an actress. Since breaking both arms falling off a balance beam in a childhood accident, she especially doesn’t like being lifted in the air, riding horses or sports. Doing press can be difficult for her too.

“Before any interview, I have to sit with myself for five minutes and breathe and get centered because I get so nervous,” she explained. “Interviews are kind of like therapy, except all your answers are being written down and printed. I always want to be on the other side of it. I don’t want to be deconstructed for millions. I’d rather do the deconstructing.”

Thanks so much for sharing your story, Emma! You remind us that emotional disorders are normal and beatable. We can all achieve our fullest dreams and potential, despite the setbacks of mental health issues.

How do YOU take care of your mental health? Tweet us @YSBnow.