Christina Applegate's Real Depression: Battling Multiple Sclerosis

Christina Applegate opens up about her daily struggles with depression due to her multiple sclerosis diagnosis, revealing that she "doesn't enjoy living" anymore.

In a raw and emotional episode of her podcast "MeSsy," Christina Applegate has shared her ongoing mental health struggles amidst her battle with multiple sclerosis (MS). The "Dead to Me" actress confessed to experiencing "real depression" on a daily basis, expressing her despair and lack of enjoyment in life.

"I'm in a depression right now, which I don't think I've felt that for years," Applegate said. "Like a real, f--- it all depression where it's kind of scaring me a little bit because it feels really fatalistic. I'm trapped in this darkness right now that I haven't felt like... I don't even know how long, probably 20 something years."

The actress's diagnosis with MS in 2021 has significantly impacted her physical and emotional well-being. She openly admitted to feeling trapped in a state of purgatory, struggling to accept the limitations and challenges brought on by her condition.

"This is being really honest... I don't enjoy living. I don't enjoy it. I don't enjoy things anymore," she tearfully added.

Applegate has also revealed her fears of seeking therapy, admitting that she's afraid of letting her emotions fully surface. Despite the encouragement of her podcast co-host Jamie-Lynn Sigler, who understands the complexities of living with MS, Applegate remains hesitant to explore this avenue for support.

"I have avoided therapy since I've been diagnosed because I'm so afraid to start crying and that I'm not going to be able to end crying," she said. "I just am so, I'm so afraid for those floodgates to open and that I won't be able to stop."

Applegate's confession highlights the psychological toll that chronic illnesses can take on individuals. The actress has been an advocate for raising awareness about MS, sharing her experiences to help others who may be struggling with the condition.

In a previous interview, Applegate described living with MS as a "hellish" experience. She detailed her sleepless nights due to movement problems in her eyes, as well as the realization that she had been experiencing warning signs for years before her diagnosis.

"I started thinking about the last four years, and I had very small symptoms," she said. "But it happened to me four years ago where we were on set, and I'd go like, 'I think I'm tired, you know?' So it presented itself like a few years ago until it just got as bad as it did."

Applegate's story serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking support and understanding when facing chronic illness. While her struggles are deeply personal, her willingness to share them empowers others to speak out about their own experiences.