“I hope I can help remove any stigma attached to [bipolar disorder], and that those who don’t have it under control will seek help.”
In 1969, Catherine Zeta-Jones was born to Welsh and Irish parents in Swansea, Wales. She began performing from a very young age for friends and family whenever she could, at the same time catching on with a local dance company. Zeta-Jones spent many of the formative years of her career honing her skills in the theatre, a more physical method that would later help her to stand out in key film roles (also aiding in this process was the fact that her brother was a Hollywood stuntman). She briefly entertained the notion of a music career before devoting herself fully to the pursuit of film roles. It was her turn as the female lead in The Mask of Zorro that thrust Zeta-Jones into the spotlight. While her career was taking off, however, she began to struggle with bipolar II disorder. Never one to stay subdued, Zeta-Jones’s big personality would take hold and help her speak openly and honestly about her issues, paving the way for her to begin proactive treatment. Zeta-Jones’s husband, legendary actor Michael Douglas, was a constant support system throughout her treatment, supplying her with positive reinforcement and motivation to continue her stellar career and also to help bring awareness to those whose lives are affected by bipolar disorder.
“Bipolar disorder is very common, but it often goes untreated. It’s really inspirational when a star like Zeta-Jones speaks out about it, encouraging other sufferers to ask for help.” – Bernardo Moya
