Actress Christina Applegate has given a stark and personal insight into her life since her MS diagnosis.
On a recent episode of her podcast, MeSsy, co-hosted with Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Applegate discussed the severe toll multiple sclerosis has taken on her mental health.
Following her surprising yet applauded appearance at the 2024 Emmy Awards, she confessed to experiencing a “depression” so heavy that she claims she hadn’t encountered it in years, even admitting it worried her due to its “fatalistic” nature.
“I’m trapped in, like, this darkness right now that I haven’t felt [in], like, I don’t even know how long, probably 20-something years,” Applegate described, noting her waning enthusiasm for life due to the chronic illness.
She has lost so much joy that she has developed a preference for the solitude of her bed over anything else.
Applegate revealed that participating in the award show, despite receiving significant praise, amounted to “the hardest day of [her] life” and was followed by “two days straight” of needed rest due to her inability to function.
In a supportive response, Sigler, who also battles MS, sympathized with the challenges of “living in a disabled body” and encouraged Applegate to persist, highlighting how tough it becomes when compared with past capabilities.
Although Sigler recognizes the hardships, she believes acceptance mitigates some of the pain. She praised Applegate’s enduring humor and love, insisting on the life-affirming power of those qualities. Sigler reminded Applegate of the reciprocal affection and admiration she received during her time at the award ceremony.
Transparent about her condition, Applegate has previously depicted her MS struggles as akin to “living in hell,” expressing the severe impact it has had on her life, including the damage it has done to her brain.
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FAQ – Christina Applegate and MS
- What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease that affects the central nervous system, which comprises the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. It can cause a range of symptoms, including physical, mental, and sometimes psychiatric problems.
- How has MS affected Christina Applegate’s life?
- Christina Applegate has described her life with MS as being filled with depression and darkness, stating that she feels “trapped” and has lost enjoyment in life. The disease has severely impacted her mental health and ability to function normally.
- When was Christina Applegate diagnosed with MS?
- Christina Applegate announced her diagnosis publicly in 2021.
- Has Christina Applegate remained active in her career since her MS diagnosis?
- Despite the challenges, she has remained active in her career, including making a surprise appearance at the 2024 Emmy Awards, where she received a standing ovation.
- What does Christina Applegate hope to share with her openness about living with MS?
- By speaking candidly about her struggles with MS, Christina Applegate hopes to raise awareness about the disease, share her personal experiences, and possibly provide support and comfort to others who are also facing similar challenges.