“I was depressed and suicidal” – Actress Juliana Olayode opens up about her three-year battle with depression and suicidal thoughts

Nollywood actress Juliana Olayode has spoken openly about a difficult period in her life, revealing that she battled depression and suicidal thoughts for nearly three years.

Taking to her Instagram page, the former Jenifa’s Diary star said she lived with deep emotional pain while still showing up daily as if everything was fine. According to her, many people never knew she was struggling or “dying inside.”

Juliana explained that depression took a serious toll on her body and mind. She said her health began to fail, she was diagnosed with different medical conditions, and she gained a lot of weight. However, she noted that the emotional burden she carried was heavier than the physical weight.

“I was depressed and suicidal for almost three years.

Of course, I showed up every day, as if I wasn’t struggling or dying inside,” she wrote.

The actress said the experience taught her how powerful joy is, describing it as “medicine.” She also shared that people who have never experienced depression often underestimate how painful it can be.

“If you have never been suicidal, you might think people who take their lives are selfish, whereas to them, it feels like the only means of escape,” she added.

Juliana revealed that she tried therapy, which helped, but said her true healing came when she turned fully to God. She described God as the “perfect fix” and stressed that seeking Him costs nothing but honesty and vulnerability.

“Therapy is great. I went to therapy too, but sometimes you need to return to your Maker for the perfect fix… You only have to say, ‘Fix me, Lord.’”

She expressed gratitude to God for complete healing and said she decided to share her story because of the many messages she receives from people battling depression and suicidal thoughts.

Encouraging others not to give up, Juliana reassured them that dark moments do not last forever.

“It is not the end.

Don’t listen to that dark voice in your head.

The sun will rise again,” she wrote.

In another message filled with compassion, the actress reminded people that their struggles are not meant to destroy them.

“If it’s happening to you, it’s because it cannot consume you.

Inside of you lies so much strength to come out whole,” she said.

Juliana ended her post by urging people to seek God, sharing prayers, love, and Bible verses, while encouraging followers to share her message with anyone who may need hope.