“Boy Meets World ”Alum Will Friedle Says Managing His Anxiety Has Gotten Easier with Age: ‘You Learn to Cope’ (Exclusive)

Actor Will Friedle has opened up about his journey with anxiety, revealing that as he approaches his 50th birthday, managing his mental health has become more manageable. At the recent premiere of his documentary, *Doc Meets World*, at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City, Friedle shared insights into living with anxiety, a struggle he first encountered at the age of 23.

During an interview, Friedle discussed how he views anxiety, stating, “I never tell people you get over it because you never do, but you learn to cope with it in such a way where it just becomes a nuisance.” This perspective reflects his maturity and understanding of his mental health over the years. He explained that while anxiety will always be a part of him, it has become less overwhelming with time.

The actor, best known for his role as Eric Matthews in the beloved sitcom *Boy Meets World*, detailed the tools he has developed to manage his anxiety. He described feeling as though he “wears it like an itchy blanket,” implying that while the discomfort lingers, he has learned to adapt. Friedle’s comments underscore a growing acceptance of mental health issues in the entertainment industry, as more figures come forth to share their experiences.

*Doc Meets World* chronicles Friedle’s reunion with his former co-stars, Danielle Fishel and Rider Strong, through their sold-out *Kids Wanna Jump Tour*. The documentary gives an intimate glimpse into their past while addressing their shared experiences of fame and the bonds they’ve formed with fans through their podcast, *Pod Meets World*, launched in 2022.

During a post-screening discussion, Friedle highlighted several practical techniques that have helped him cope with anxiety. He recommended a breathing exercise known as “5-6 breathing,” where one inhales for five counts, holds for six, and exhales for five. Additionally, he suggested mentally counting down from 100 to zero by threes, which he believes engages the analytical aspect of the brain, temporarily easing anxiety.

Another method Friedle employs involves confronting his anxiety head-on. “I get mad at my anxiety,” he stated, sharing a mantra to combat negative feelings: “No, you’re not doing this today. I’m not allowing this right now.” This proactive approach demonstrates his commitment to reclaiming control over his mental health.

Reflecting on his past, Friedle recalled experiencing his first panic attack while filming *H-E Double Hockey Sticks* in 1999. “I’m in the middle of a take and I have my first panic attack,” he recalled with the unintended consequence of that moment being captured on film. He described the feeling as if he were “dying,” a common sensation among those who face panic attacks.

In a previous discussion at New York Comic Con in 2018, Friedle disclosed how his struggles with anxiety have impacted his career choices. He revealed that he had shifted his focus away from on-screen acting due to anxiety attacks, instead turning to voice acting, which allowed him to continue performing while managing his mental health.

Friedle’s reflections serve as an important reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by those living with anxiety. While his experiences have been difficult, he remains hopeful about the future, stating that, “The older you get, the better it gets. It just gets easier.”

As more celebrities like Friedle share their battles with mental health, they contribute to an essential dialogue that aims to reduce stigma and encourage others to seek support. For anyone struggling with similar issues, helplines such as 988 offer resources and support around the clock, reminding us that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.