Chinese actress Zhao Lusi has recently opened up about her struggles with health issues and past trauma, which has taken health and the entertainment community by surprise. Most recently, she revealed through her social media handles her diagnosis of aphasia, alongside battles with depression and other anxiety disorders, bringing forth public sympathy and concern.
Adding to the intrigue, netizens unearthed old photographs of the actress taken during her college days at Mingdao University, where she was affectionately known as the "Dumpling Fairy" due to her part-time job selling dumplings. According to reports, Zhao was well-liked by her classmates and faculty alike during her time at university, showcasing her vibrant personality and passion for cooking.
Zhao Lusi described her time studying at Mingdao University as "a very interesting and special experience," highlighting her enjoyment of Taiwanese cuisine. Her favorites included the local delicacies of three-cup chicken, Changhua meatballs, and mung bean milk ice. She humorously pointed out, though, she struggled to adapt to the humid and hot weather of Taiwan.
The discovery of her cute old photos from her university days has sparked conversations among fans and classmates, reminiscing her youthful charm and talent. Born with natural good looks, Zhao had taken on modeling roles within the university's fashion department and even participated as a model during graduation exhibitions. Her initiative extended beyond modeling; she used her business acumen to manage her own dumpling stall with hands-on efforts, often visiting the local market to purchase fresh pork.
During her time selling dumplings, Zhao often received special requests from her professors, which humorously led to comments about "extra-large dumplings" from her inspired cooking. Fans have found these anecdotes delightful and heartwarming as they reveal her hardworking and dedicated spirit even as she pursued her education.
Unfortunately, the past few years have not been kind to Zhao. Reports state she has been on medical leave due to her deteriorated mental and physical health. The actress publicly shared struggles with depression and anxiety, mentioning her mental health significantly worsened since 2019 due to the pressure from her work, which only recently led her to see mental health professionals.
Unfortunately, it was revealed Zhao faced abusive behavior from senior executives during her early years of stardom, contributing to her emotional distress. Acknowledging these past struggles, she candidly expressed her desire to raise awareness around mental health issues, stating, "I find myself too sentimental and sensitive, I didn’t take my mental issues seriously enough". Her desire to communicate about mental health resonates strongly with fans who have expressed their support and admiration for her courage.
Despite these tribulations, Zhao continues to strive for her recovery. Spreading uplifting vibes online, fans have flocked to her social media to express their disbelief and heaviness at her revelations. Messages like "We’ll be waiting for you to be well again" have flooded her feed as individuals send well-wishes and heartfelt encouragement.
Interestingly, Zhao Lusi’s transition between life as a student to one of high visibility and significant emotional struggles raises poignant questions about the pressures faced by rising stars today. The pressure to remain relevant and successful can lead to intense emotional strain, particularly around histories of trauma which Zhao is still processing.
Alongside her share of the negative aspects of fame, Zhao’s lovely memories from Taiwan stand out, reminding us of the brighter days and experiences. From energetically preparing dumplings on the street to walking the runway as a coveted student, those moments shape her identity beyond just the actress we see today.
For her New Year's wish back in 2021, Zhao desired health, happiness, and the absence of sorrow, which served as foreshadowing to her struggles. Happy memories of her overflowing enthusiasm for shrimp dumplings and her commitment to encouraging those around her paint the picture of a young woman who was not only driven but equally haunted by her circumstances.
Now, as she steps back from her public endeavors, she reminds everyone about the importance of taking care of mental well-being and the need for community awareness. "Taking care of our mental state is just as important as our physical health," she stated, drawing attention to making sure mental health is treated with the utmost care and seriousness.
With every passing day, her fans and followers stand by her side with hope as she embarks on her healing path, believing she will overcome these struggles and bounce back stronger than before.