Ellen DeGeneres, Comedian, Talk-show Host, Depression - You Are Not Alone
Born and raised in Metairie, Louisiana, Ellen DeGeneres is one of the most popular & dearest comediennes of our time. Her impact on the world, goes beyond her memorable roles in the entertainment business, to changing world’s perspective and response to gay & lesbian relationships.
The circumstances surrounding these changes were what provided the segue for the state of depression which Ellen would not only encounter, but would endure and overcome successfully, as we all know today.
Professional Achievements
While Ellen broke through on the comedy scene doing stand-up she became quite popular with the release of the television situation-comedy ‘Ellen’ in the mid-90’s, she also contributed a few stints in the major motion-picture industry, the most notable of which consisted of her providing the voice for the beloved but scatterbrained fish Dora in the animated picture ‘Finding Nemo’.
You may also remember her short-lived sit-com ‘The Ellen Show’. Today Ms. DeGeneres has established herself quite solidly as reigning royalty on the television day-time talk show circuit. She also won an Emmy in 1996 for Best Comedy Writer for her show ‘Ellen’, which featured a presumably gay character (DeGeneres) who, in 1996, ‘came out of the closet’ on national television.
DeGeneres - Dealing with Depression
Subsequent to Ellen’s sit-com character exposing her sexuality to the world, Ellen herself crossed that closet threshold, revealing to the public that she herself was a lesbian. While the world was quite sure of this fact already, the fact itself had remained an ‘elephant in the room’ so to speak. The reality proved a bit much for the public to handle at the time, and even though the series had earned an Emmy, it was cancelled due to declining ratings and overwhelming public scrutiny.
This resulted in a severe stumbling into depression for Ellen, resulting in the break-up of her relationship with actress Anne Heche and a loss of thousands fans. Ellen herself said of the situation, “I went through a phase, whether it was true or not, where my perception was, ‘Everyone hates me now,’ and it felt horrible." For a woman who, as a youngster was professionally inspired by being famous, liked, popular, and rich, this was quite a blow.
Ellen’s depression manifested through severe mood swings, isolation, and the exhibition of a variety of other symptoms which threatened to end her career. Depression is typically diagnosed by a lack of motivation, over or under-eating, isolation, lack of socialization, and a variety of symptoms.
Ellen DeGeneres - Depression Recovery & Treatment
Ellen DeGeneres found that one of the best ways for her to cope, was to put her nose to the grindstone and try and persevere. She was aided in her endeavors by professional consultation & counselling; helping her receive effective treatment for her depression. LGTBI people are have reportedly rates of Depression and Anxiety then the heterosexual community. In the case of depression, the rate is more then double. It is theorized that this is likely due to the social stigma experienced by members of the LGBTI community & the stress of leading a 'secret life' before 'coming out of the closet'.
Many people like Ellen live with depression and other mental illnesses, however many are wary of seeking treatment. We at AB Consultation & Counselling Service are a non-discriminatory counselling service that can help you or someone you know who might be struggling with the depression, anxiety or any other mental illness. If you or someone you know has Depression, please let us help you guide you on your Road to Recovery.