Alix Earle Addresses ‘Stigma’ Around Anxiety Medication, While Sharing She’s Been Taking Meds Since Age 14

Alix Earle, a well-known influencer, recently opened up about her journey with anxiety and the use of medication in a new YouTube vlog. At just 25 years old, the TikTok star discussed her experience taking Lexapro, an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), since she was 14. During the video, which blends cooking tutorials with candid discussion about mental health, Earle candidly shared insights into her life, relationships, and the reality of managing anxiety.

Earle began by illustrating her struggles with anxiety, a condition she has battled for much of her adolescence. Initially, the influencer expressed reluctance towards seeking prescription medication, believing she could manage her symptoms without it. However, she soon discovered that medication could play a crucial role in her wellbeing. “I was so reluctant to do it at first… But it really did help me,” she said, highlighting the real challenges of overcoming a chemical imbalance in the brain.

The YouTube video, which featured her cooking a “white bean verde chicken chili,” allowed Earle to multitask while addressing various viewer questions. One inquiry focused on the limitations of traditional coping mechanisms such as therapy and journaling for anxiety management. In response, Earle emphasised the efficacy of medication in her own life, encouraging viewers to consider consulting a medical professional if they find themselves in similar situations.

In sharing her personal experience with Lexapro, Earle described her time on the medication as “very good” with minimal side effects. However, she also acknowledged the difficulty of contemplating life without it, having been on the drug for so many years. “Different medications work for different people,” she noted, underlining that medication is not necessarily a lifelong commitment. Earle reassured her audience that options are available for those who might want to start, switch, or discontinue medication.

Addressing the social stigma surrounding mental health treatments, Earle offered a relatable perspective. “It can feel really scary, and there feels like there’s a stigma around it at times,” she shared, noting that many of her friends also rely on various forms of medication to tackle mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and OCD. Earle’s openness about her struggles and the steps she’s taken speaks to a broader conversation happening around mental health, one that many are keen to engage with.

While Earle affirmed her positive views on medication, she was careful to clarify that she does not serve as a medical expert. “I am in favour of it, but I’m also not a doctor, so I’m not going to tell you what to do,” she said. This caution reflects a desire to promote informed decision-making regarding mental health treatment, emphasising that personal choices should be based on individual needs and professional guidance.

Earle’s willingness to discuss her mental health challenges and the role medication has had in her life shines a light on the importance of such conversations. With increasing numbers of people facing similar struggles, her story resonates with many and serves as a reminder that support is available.

For individuals or families grappling with mental health issues, Earle concluded her vlog by providing resources. The TEDx influencer urged viewers to reach out for help, highlighting the Crisis Text Line as a place to find certified support by texting “STRENGTH” to 741-741.

In a landscape where mental health discussions are becoming more mainstream, Alix Earle’s transparency encourages greater empathy and understanding around the complexities of anxiety treatment. Her vlog not only provides a glimpse into her culinary skills but also fosters vital dialogue about mental wellness, breaking down barriers and promoting a healthier perspective on seeking help.