Dakota Johnson, renowned for her role in Fifty Shades of Grey, received the 2023 Hope Award for Depression Advocacy at the 17th Annual HOPE Luncheon Seminar. During the event covered by DailyMail, the 34-year-old actress candidly discussed her longstanding battle with depression, dating back to the age of 15, and expressed gratitude for the empathetic support of her boyfriend, Chris Martin.
Johnson shared an endearing incident that showcased Martin’s sensitivity to her mental health struggles. Recalling a recent low day, she narrated how the Coldplay frontman gently inquired, “Are you really struggling?” even as she initially denied it. His perceptive observation of her wearing a Cats T-shirt, a musical known for its emotional depth, highlighted the depth of his understanding. Johnson confessed, “It turns out I was really struggling,” acknowledging that Martin’s kind acknowledgment “lifted [her] heart and pulled [her] out of it.”
The actress, who has been in a relationship with Martin since 2017, revealed that she often turns to “self-deprecating ways” as a coping mechanism. She explained that employing humor as a mask for her pain or anxiety has become a valuable tool, allowing her to navigate challenging moments. “Perhaps it is easier to look it in the eyes if I wear the mask of comedy,” she noted, emphasizing the effectiveness of humor as a means of support. “It helps me because sometimes if I don’t laugh, I’ll cry.”
As Johnson continues to be an advocate for mental health, her openness about her struggles and the role of humor as a coping mechanism sheds light on the complexities of navigating mental health challenges. The supportive dynamic between Johnson and Martin exemplifies the importance of understanding and compassion within relationships, especially during difficult times.
