Supernatural star Jared Padalecki is bravely sharing his journey regarding mental health challenges he has faced throughout his career. He openly discusses the strategies that helped him navigate through his most difficult “low” moments. Despite his successful portrayal of characters in Supernatural and various other projects, Padalecki admits that beneath the surface, he has been battling personal mental health issues.

According to People, Padalecki opened up about these struggles during his appearance at MegaCon Orlando this year. He highlighted how significant events, including the 2023 Hollywood strikes and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, have exacerbated his mental health challenges, demonstrating how external factors can intensify personal battles with mental wellness.

Padalecki expressed deep gratitude for the supportive Supernatural fan community. He acknowledged that many fans have shown unwavering support throughout his mental health journey. By sharing his experiences publicly, he has fostered a connection with his audience, who have responded positively, which he greatly appreciates:

“I just feel so grateful [for the fans] because I was very public about some of the s**t I was going through that I’ve been kind of not secret about but haven’t shared yet, and I was met with such love and acceptance that it meant a lot to me.”

This is not the first instance where the actor has opened up regarding his mental health. He has previously shared about seeking professional help at a clinic. Initiating conversations around mental health is crucial for breaking the stigma that often surrounds these topics, and Padalecki appears dedicated to this important cause.

Jared Padalecki Shares His Journey of Seeking Professional Help for Mental Health Challenges

He Candidly Discussed His Experience of Seeking Clinic Help for Suicidal Thoughts

In a revealing 2024 interview on the I’ve Never Said This Before With Tommy DiDario podcast, Padalecki shared his personal experiences related to mental health. He recounted a particularly challenging time when he faced suicidal thoughts, prompting him to seek assistance from a mental health clinic. During this difficult period, his wife, Genevieve Padalecki, played a crucial role in ensuring his safety:

“It was 2015. I had a really low moment. I was letting my thoughts take over and going to places of dramatic suicidal ideation. I called my wife, and she said, ‘Get home.’”

Padalecki then attended the facility for what he described as a “full reset,” and he confidently stated that he hasn’t experienced suicidal thoughts since that time. He emphasized the importance of normalizing such experiences, asserting that there is no shame in facing mental health challenges. He encourages others to seek help when needed and is transparent about his own journey:

“I don’t wear it as a scarlet letter. It’s not like I’m shameful, like, ‘Hey, I see a therapist, I’ve been to a clinic.’ I wear it proudly. I put it on my face and tell everybody. If you’re not in a situation where you need that degree of help, then don’t seek it.”

Jared Padalecki Champions Mental Health Awareness Through His Always Keep Fighting Initiative

His Dedication to Mental Health Advocacy Reflects His Personal Experiences

It is truly inspiring to witness Padalecki openly discussing his mental health challenges, particularly as his openness may contribute to reducing stigma among fans of both him and shows like Supernatural. However, this is not the sole way Padalecki is advocating for mental wellness. He passionately supports mental health initiatives through his Always Keep Fighting campaign, which he founded in 2015.

The Always Keep Fighting campaign aims to raise funds for organizations that assist individuals facing mental health challenges. This includes reputable charities such as To Write Love on Her Arms and The Wounded Warrior Project. Considering Padalecki’s personal history with depression and suicidal thoughts, his commitment to helping others in similar situations is both poignant and meaningful.

Support from Padalecki’s co-stars, including Jensen Ackles and Misha Collins, highlights the unity within the Supernatural community concerning this important cause. Their backing reinforces Padalecki’s message and indicates that support for mental health advocacy can indeed make a significant difference in people’s lives.

Source: People, I’ve Never Said This Before With Tommy DiDario