Jake Lloyd, who rose to fame as young Anakin Skywalker in 1999's Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace, is opening up about his mental health struggles and the schizophrenia diagnosis contributing to his departure from Hollywood shortly after the film's release. Recently, Lloyd shared insights about his experiences during an interview with Clayton Sandell, co-author of Star Wars: Timelines, where he expressed feeling "pretty good" after completing an 18-month stay at a mental health facility.
Lloyd is currently residing at another rehabilitation center, which offers him more freedom. "[I feel] pretty good, considering these 20 years of time... I can now accept taking on continued treatment, and therapy, and my meds. Everyone's been very supportive," shared Lloyd during the interview. His path to recovery has not been without obstacles, primarily his battle with anosognosia, a neurological condition preventing patients from recognizing the severity of their illness.
His mother, Lisa Lloyd, previously explained how their family history of schizophrenia influences Jake's condition. Although the backlash from his role as Anakin was widespread, she clarified it wasn’t the primary reason for his exit from the film industry. "Jake started having some trouble in high school... He didn't know if he was in this reality or another reality. I didn’t really know exactly what to say to this," Lisa recounted, reflecting on the early signs of his struggles.
After his psychotic break last March, where he reportedly turned off his car engine on busy highway, Jake was hospitalized and later admitted to rehab. "I don’t have the time for feeling volatile. It is very much a cushion," Lloyd stated, describing how his medication helps stabilize his mood and outlook. “Hitting rock bottom was necessary to honestly take part in treatment, honestly take your meds, and honestly live with your diagnosis.”
Throughout his treatment, Jake has been surrounded by supportive family and friends, stating, "The experience I've had with the fans is immediately therapeutic. Right now, it's still therapeutic. It's helpful for people and healthy. It isn’t something I’d shy away from." His relationship with fans remains strong, as he appreciates the bond forged through shared love for the franchise.
Lisa expressed relief at her son’s progress, saying, "Jake's actually getting so muchbetter than he was. It’s a big relief for me and the rest of his family. We're all just thrilled he's doing as well as he is." She believes their combined support has been instrumental for Jake as he navigates his challenges.
Reflecting on his time within the rehabilitation system, Lloyd shared, "Good things have come from treatment, and I really do appreciate the time that's been taken on us." Showing immense gratitude for the love and patience from those around him, he noted the importance of community during recovery.
Now 35, Jake Lloyd is focused on his health and hopes to reconnect with the world outside the confines of rehabilitation. His mental health struggles have formed the backbone of his narrative, transitioning from child star to someone actively fighting for clarity and acceptance concerning his diagnosis. With continued support from both family and friends, Lloyd is poised to navigate life with newfound strength.