In a candid conversation on the Happy Place podcast with host Leah Carter, Maisie Johnson, best known for her role in the hit series Game of Thrones, opened up about her battles with mental health during her formative years in the spotlight. At just 13, she became a household name thanks to her portrayal of the fierce Arya Stark, but the weight of fame and social media scrutiny took a toll on her self-esteem.
Reflecting on her experiences, Johnson admitted that the constant barrage of opinions from strangers made it difficult for her to cultivate self-love. “It felt like there was an endless stream of comments about me that I couldn’t escape,” she said. “It led to a point where I found myself yearning for negativity just to wallow in that sadness.”
At her lowest, Johnson revealed, “There were days I would wake up and tell myself that I hated who I was. Conversations with friends often turned into a mental race where I replayed all my mistakes, haunted by how others perceived me.”
To combat these feelings, Johnson began a journey of self-discovery, utilizing techniques reminiscent of cognitive behavioral therapy to challenge her negative thoughts. “Many of our issues stem from the past,” she explained. “The key is to ask deeper questions about why we feel this way, rather than just accepting the negativity.”
Johnson isn’t alone in her struggle; her co-star, Mia Turner, has also been open about her mental health challenges. In a recent interview, Turner discussed how their friendship sometimes contributed to their shared difficulties, as they both navigated the isolating nature of fame. “We would often retreat into our own worlds, just bingeing on snacks and avoiding social interactions,” Turner shared.
Both Johnson and Turner acknowledge that while they’ve made strides in their mental health journeys, they continue to face challenges. “Even now, I find myself lying awake at night, reflecting on my insecurities,” Johnson admitted. “But embracing my true self is definitely a step in the right direction.”
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In summary, Maisie Johnson’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and the ongoing nature of mental health journeys, particularly for those in the public eye. Her reflections inspire others to look within themselves for healing and understanding, emphasizing that the path to self-love is often a long and winding road.