“Love Is Blind” reality star Danielle Ruhl has spoken up about mental health and self-love after appearing on the Netflix reality dating show. Although she married Nick Thompson at the altar, she has frequently criticized the show for the way that her mental health and panic attacks were portrayed.
In a recent Instagram post, Danielle continued to open up about her struggles with mental health with her 542K Instagram followers.
Danielle Ruhl Says It Is ‘Increasingly Important’ To Talk About Mental Health
Danielle began her message, saying, “Ppl have asked me if vocalizing about mental health, self love, etc would be as important to me if I wasn’t an ‘influencer’ (Or whatever u call it idk). These are things I have always openly talked about with friends/ family & now that I have a platform to communicate these messages on a broader scale, it continues to be increasingly important.”
“The person I was growing up & in high school vs the person I am now (real Danielle not ‘LIB’ Danielle forced into a character for entertainment) is completely different,” she continued. “Before college, I never thought I’d be able to overcome my mental health challenges & insecurities. Now that I have (but will always be a work in progress), it means the world to let others know that they aren’t alone & can overcome these feelings even if at times it feels impossible.”
“It was very difficult having millions hate me for thinking I am a person who is the complete opposite of who I really am,” she added. “It was hard to navigate at first. However, being able to connect with those on topics that are important makes none of that matter. I didn’t know if I would be able to overcome it, but often the most difficult times end up resulting in growth & lead you to where you need to be.”
Danielle Ruhl Wants To Use Her Platform To Raise Mental Health Awareness
Danielle continued, “Imagine being in a place where you feel strong & confident, but are told on a daily basis there are many things you should be insecure about, even things that you thought were positive attributes & are convinced to believe are negative.”
“Having ppl recognize ur past mental struggles/ triggers & having them taken advantage of for a reaction,” she continued. “Especially when you had overcome those feelings for so long & the effects of having them resurfaced daily to fit a caricature of mental health (CPTSD: Surviving to Thriving is a good book if u relate) bc not only saying bc of reality tv, but how ppl treat ppl in life in general.”
“These are things that many ppl deal with & there are always ups & downs. But always trust that you’ll have the ability to come out on top & there is always a light at the end of the tunnel,” she concluded. “If there are other topics that would be beneficial to communicate I would love to know, as allowing others to not feel the way I did as a kid means everything.”
Fans Thank Danielle Ruhl For Being Open About Her Struggles
One fan wrote, “Love how you are using your voice for such an important matter. As someone who battles depression and bpd it means a lot.”
“I love that your opening up and sharing your experiences to make it easier for others,” another commented.
Another fan commented, “I struggle with mental health and watching you on the show was so relatable!”
“I love how you are using your platform, you are so real, and relatable!” said another. “You come across as someone we’d want to hang out with!! There will always be haters,-unhappy people who judge. Keep focusing on and sharing what brings you joy, and pay attention to all the positive responses! I’m struggling with my weight, it’s been up and down since I’ve been a mom. Lots of stress with my kids and I’m in a rut of turning to food for comfort. Hard to make the changes!!”
“Your a bloody goddess and I am so honoured to read your words and hear someone as beautiful and wonderful and caring as you RELATE TO MY BRAIN,” another commented. “It’s so easy for us to feel alone with the horrible thoughts and voices in our head and you help me feel less alone and I bloody love you for it ❤️ keep being an amazing kick a– queen ❤️”
