Chinese actress Zhao Lusi recently left fans emotional during her first public appearance since disclosing her battles with depression and related health issues. On January 1, 2025, she revealed via Weibo her long-standing struggle with depression, which she had endured since 2019. The actress’s health concerns became the subject of public scrutiny after photos circulated online of her being transported to the hospital, where she suffered from neurological damage linked to dissociative disorders.
Zhao made her much-anticipated return to the spotlight on January 25, 2025, at a promotional event for the beverage brand Viee, held in Chengdu, China. Dressed in stylish red, she used a cane for support as she navigated through the cheering crowd of fans gathered to offer their support. Attendees captured the emotional atmosphere, with many fans shedding tears upon seeing her.
"I wanted to tell those who care about me, I’m safe and sound before Chinese New Year," Zhao expressed, visibly moved by the emotional response of her audience. "I saw many fans of mine cry and burst Into tears today, and my heart aches at the sight. Please don’t cry anymore. I feel as if the power I can bring is this: Look at how well I’m recovering. I hope everyone can take mental health issues seriously and not wait until they become severe." These heartfelt remarks echoed throughout the event as she interacted with those who came to support her.
During the event, which was also livestreamed on Chinese social media, Zhao elaborated on her health struggles, citing her diagnosis of dissociative conversion disorder, which often emerges due to trauma. This condition can disrupt various aspects of mental and physical health, leading to debilitating symptoms such as paralysis and speech loss. "I experienced symptoms of paralysis and loss of speech. It was very hard to face myself at the time, but I'm so grateful to be like this right now," she said.
The actress has gained fame through her roles in hit series, including The Romance of Tiger and Rose (2020) and Love Like the Galaxy (2022), with significant recognition for her 2023 performance in Hidden Love. Her current focus on mental health advocacy resonates within the broader discourse around emotional well-being, particularly among young individuals.
Zhao's health issues first drew widespread attention when she was photographed utilizing a wheelchair during hospital visits, beginning late last year. On January 1, she shared her story on Weibo, detailing the accumulation of both mental and physical health problems stemming from past workplace abuse. She alleged physical and verbal mistreatment by an unnamed former supervisor, leading to her intense struggles.
With her latest public appearance, Zhao hopes to inspire others who may be dealing with similar mental health challenges. She emphasized the importance of self-love, stating, "The person I should love the most is myself." This marks the evolution of her outlook following her experiences with illness, reflecting her newfound commitment to prioritize her mental well-being.
Reflecting on her past self, Zhao recounted, "I used to see being easy to get along with as key, often enduring what I didn’t like. But after my recent illness, I created new boundaries to care for my emotions."
To bolster awareness surrounding mental wellness, Viee announced the establishment of a foundation aimed at providing support to young people dealing with mental health issues. Zhao expressed her commitment to assist others, explaining, "I realized there are many people like me, and I want to do something for them. I feel fortunate, being a celebrity with resources to help make this impact. I hope you will feel encouraged by my story."
A touching video compiling Zhao's recovery was shared by her studio on January 26, illustrating her physical and emotional healing process. The visually captivating clip showed her transformation from distress and disability to reclaiming her strength, culminating with her emotional appearance at the Viee event. The caption poignantly read, "She's growing up again with love’s nourishment, bearing flowers of bravery," encapsulating her incredible resilience.
The video’s conclusion featured Zhao urging fans, "I hope everyone will leave all their problems and negativity behind as we move forward to 2025."
Zhao Lusi's courageous story serves not only as an inspiring narrative of recovery and resilience but as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness among young people. By openly discussing her struggles, she advocates for taking mental health seriously and validating the experiences of those encountering similar battles.