SUPERNATURAL star Jared Padalecki opened up about his journey with mental health and needing a break from the industry.
Jared, 41, recalled a time in 2015 when he checked himself into a clinic after struggling with dark thoughts and suicidal ideation.
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On an upcoming episode of Tommy DiDario’s I’ve Never Said This Before podcast, Jared said he is now “proudly open” about his longtime mental health battle.
“As he sits next to his wife, Genevieve Padalecki, the actor recalls going through a “very low moment” almost a decade ago.
“I was letting my thoughts take control and going to places of dramatic suicidal ideation. I called my wife and she said, ‘Go home,’” he said in an exclusive clip obtained by People.
“And so, I came home, went to a clinic for a few weeks and looked into it and I haven’t been suicidal since then – not for a moment,” Jared added.
Read more about Jared Padalecki
Jared, also known for playing Dean Forester on Gilmore Girls, said he’s not ashamed that he’s reached such a dark place in his life.
“I needed a complete reset. I spent 15 years in this industry. You go to an audition or the red carpet and they don’t want, ‘Jared, how are you today?’ ‘Oh, today was hard, I didn’t sleep.’ They want, ‘Oh, it’s great! I’m excited to be here!’” he explained.
“So I did that for a long time, trying to focus on what’s best for the person talking to me instead of just being honest.”
In terms of seeking help, Jared admitted that he “doesn’t wear it like a scarlet letter.”
“It’s not like I’m ashamed, like, ‘Hey, I go to a therapist, I’ve been to a clinic.’ I wear it with pride. I put it on my face and tell everyone. If you’re not in a situation where you need that degree of help, don’t look for it,” the actor continued.
He went on to explain how he still has ups and downs throughout the day, but he overcomes them by surrounding himself with loved ones and talking to people.
He also urged listeners to talk to friends or professionals if necessary and “tell the truth.”
A SAD GOODBYE
Jared also spoke about the cancellation of his show, Walker, in which he produced and played the lead role of Cordell Walker.
The CW drama series, which is a reboot of the 1990s show Walker, Texas Ranger, premiered in 2021 and was officially canceled last month.
After admitting he was having a “crappy” day while filming the podcast, he said he had “a lot of sadness about Walker.”
The main roles of Jared Padalecki
- (1998) A little inside – Matt Nelson
- (2002) A Ring of Infinite Light – Zachery Gray
- (2003) Young MacGyver – Clay MacGyver
- (2004) New York Minute – Trey Lipton
- (2004) Flight of the Phoenix – Davis
- (2000-2005) Gilmore Girls – Dean Forester
- (2005) House of Wax – Wade
- (2005) Cry Wolf – Tone
- (2008) Thomas Kinkade’s Christmas House – Thomas Kinkade
- (2009) Friday the 13th – Clay Miller
- (2011) Supernatural: The Animation – SamWinchester
- (2015) Ghost Boy Lieutenant Alex
- (2005-2020) Supernatural – SamWinchester
- (2021-2024) Walker – Cordell Walker
“Today is a difficult day. It’s been a tough month since we found out, but I’m in a great place with my wife, our kids, my friends, my family,” he said, adding, “Seek help, open up.”
Jared also said he has been trying to keep an open mind and focus on the future.
The CW released a statement in late May to inform fans of the show’s cancellation.
“We want to thank the entire cast, crew, writers, directors and producers of Walker for their hard work and dedication over four incredible seasons,” the network said.
I wear it with pride. I put it on my face and tell everyone. If you’re not in a situation where you need that level of help, then don’t seek it.”
Jared Padalecki
“We also want to give a special thanks to star and executive producer Jared Padalecki, who has been a member of the CW family for more than 20 years and has been an integral part of some of the network’s biggest hits,” the statement continued.
The actor sent a separate statement on her personal Instagram account shortly after.
“Hi everyone. It is with a heavy heart that I share this news with you,” he wrote. “Walker will not air on The CW for a fifth season.
“It’s difficult news, for sure, but we are SO grateful for the #WalkerFamily that has been built, both on set and off.”
Jared added that he will “forever smile about the years I spent with the cast, crew, studio, network and fandom that made it all possible.”
“Until we ride again,” he hung up.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, please call or text 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.orgor text Crisis Text Line at 741741.
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
