Austin Butler Says He Thought He Was ‘Dying’ as He Experienced Symptoms Including Temporary Blindness

Austin Butler Reveals Struggle With Burnout Symptoms and Temporary Blindness

Austin Butler, the talented actor, opened up about his harrowing experience with burnout symptoms, including temporary blindness that left him feeling like he was ‘dying’. The 34-year-old star, known for his roles in films like “Elvis” and “Dune: Part Two”, shared his personal journey towards prioritising his health and well-being in a recent interview. This revelation sheds light on the dark side of the entertainment industry and the toll it can take on individuals.

In a candid conversation with Men’s Health for their September 2025 cover story, Butler recounted a terrifying incident while on a flight to film “The Bikeriders” in 2023. He described waking up with a severe migraine and a sensation of his life being drained from him. Butler even faced a momentary loss of vision, which he attributed to sleep deprivation at the time, brushing it off as a side effect of his hectic schedule.

Although Butler pushed through and continued with his work commitments, it was later revealed that temporary blindness is not a recognised symptom of sleep deprivation according to medical professionals. This revelation raises concerns about the importance of recognising and addressing burnout symptoms before they escalate into more serious health issues.

The actor admitted that he used to believe that struggling was an essential part of his acting process, a mindset that led him to ignore the warning signs of burnout. However, with the guidance of mentors like actress Laura Dern, Butler learned the importance of finding a balance between work and personal well-being. Dern’s influence helped him realise that it is possible to ‘come out the other side’ without sacrificing one’s mental and physical health.

Butler’s journey serves as a reminder of the pressures and challenges faced by those in the spotlight. The entertainment industry often glamorises a culture of overwork and sacrifice, which can have detrimental effects on individuals’ health. By sharing his story, Butler encourages others to prioritise self-care and seek support when facing burnout or mental health challenges.

As Butler continues to navigate his successful acting career, he emphasises the significance of slowing down, taking time for rest and recovery, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. His upcoming projects, including “Eddington” and “Caught Stealing”, showcase his commitment to his craft while also prioritising his well-being.

In conclusion, Austin Butler’s courageous decision to speak out about his struggles with burnout and temporary blindness sheds light on the importance of mental health in high-pressure industries like entertainment. His journey towards prioritising self-care serves as a valuable lesson for others grappling with similar challenges, highlighting the significance of seeking help and finding a balance between work and personal well-being in pursuit of success.