Jake Lloyd, Young Anakin from ‘Star Wars,’ Opens Up About His Struggle with Schizophrenia

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Jake Lloyd, famously known for playing Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, has recently shared his personal story of dealing with schizophrenia. This ongoing struggle caused him to retreat from acting shortly after the movie’s release in 1999.

Lately, Lloyd had been in a mental health institution in Southern California for about 18 months. Currently, he expresses that he’s feeling quite well, and he’s pursuing his treatment at a place that allows him greater flexibility to come and leave as needed.

Feeling quite well, given the two decades that have just passed. I’m ready to continue with my treatment, therapy, and medications. Everyone around me has been incredibly supportive.

Source: Variety

I’ve got to say, the backing I’ve had has been instrumental in helping me stick with my therapy sessions and medication regimen. It truly makes a difference!

At some stage, Lloyd reached a low point which he referred to as ‘hitting rock bottom’. However, he feels this was an essential phase for him to commit wholeheartedly to his treatment. He stated that taking his medication regularly provides him with balance, likening it to a ‘cushion’ that shields him from mood swings.

Lloyd’s mother, Lisa, disputed claims suggesting that the severe criticism of “The Phantom Menace” forced her son out of acting. Instead, she emphasized that his 2008 diagnosis with schizophrenia played a significant role in his decision to step away from the spotlight. Furthermore, Lisa spoke about shielding Jake from the fallout, enabling him to enjoy his childhood free from the internet’s harsh criticisms.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but reflect on the inevitable unfolding of events in Jake’s life. Genetics, I suspect, played a significant role in this story. His psychiatrist concurs that it was only a matter of time before Jake developed schizophrenia. I did my best to shield him from the harsh criticism surrounding ‘The Phantom Menace’, ensuring he remained blissfully unaware while he enjoyed his simple pleasures, like riding his bike and playing with friends outside.

He wasn’t concerned about it. People seem to overreact on this matter, which is quite frustrating for me because at the time Jake was just a child when this happened, and I kept him offline, so he didn’t truly experience those emotions.

Source: Variety

Examining Lloyd’s journey provides a glimpse into the methods he employed to tackle difficulties and maintain his psychological well-being throughout the years.

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2025-01-06 06:14