Jessie Buckley Credits Theatre for Mental Health Recovery

Irish actress Jessie Buckley has shared her experiences with mental health challenges during her teenage years, emphasizing the significant role music and theatre played in her recovery.

Buckley, an accomplished actress recognized for her roles, including in an adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's novel, described acting as an "essential" part of her life. This passion for her craft was instrumental in helping her overcome an eating disorder and depression during her formative years.

Speaking on Radio 4's Desert Island Discs, Buckley revealed the intensity of her struggles, stating, "I didn't know how to be alive the way I wanted to be." She found that theatre and music were not just passions but lifelines, which she felt she might not have survived without.

Reflecting on her early career, including her appearance on the BBC talent show "I'd Do Anything," Buckley also touched upon criticism regarding her appearance. She expressed pride in her younger self, acknowledging her journey of self-discovery and her unwavering commitment to her true aspirations of singing and acting.