Opening up about her battle with an eating disorder was both frightening and transformative, says Emily in Paris star Lily Collins, revealing that speaking publicly about her struggles has been one of the most terrifying yet rewarding experiences of her life.
According to the actress, sharing her personal journey has helped her connect with others facing similar challenges.
Marking Eating Disorder Awareness Month on social media, Lily Collins reflected on how advocacy and storytelling have become central to her healing process.
She noted that recovery is different for everyone and described her own progress as ongoing, emphasizing that healing is not a straight path but a continuous effort.
Lily has previously spoken about developing an eating disorder during her teenage years, explaining in past interviews that it stemmed from a desire for control while navigating school pressures and relationships.
According to her earlier statements, unrealistic standards of perfection often shaped by media portrayals played a significant role in her struggles.
Over time, however, her priorities shifted. The actress portrayed a young woman battling anorexia in the 2017 Netflix film To the Bone, a role she has said felt deeply personal.
According to Collins, telling that story allowed her to channel her own experiences into something meaningful and gave a voice to many who suffer silently.
She added that if speaking out helps even one person feel less alone, the vulnerability is “Beyond worth it.”
Collins has also revealed that her desire to have children motivated her to seek help. According to the star, she realized she did not want her health struggles to affect her future family plans.
Last year, she and her husband, filmmaker Charlie McDowell, welcomed a baby daughter via surrogate, a milestone she has described as a joyful new chapter.
Now 36, Collins says she continues to live with awareness of her past but refuses to let it define her present. By speaking candidly, she hopes to replace stigma with understanding and turn one of her most painful chapters into a source of strength for others.