Actress Juliana Olayode has spoken openly about a prolonged struggle with depression that lasted almost three years.
The 30-year-old, best known for her role as Toyosi in the television series Jenifa’s Diary, shared her experience in a post on her Instagram page on Thursday. She said she continued to show up publicly during the period despite feeling deeply unwell.
“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.
Juliana explained that depression affected her emotionally and physically, changing how she viewed life and mental health. She said the experience taught her that people who battle such conditions often suffer quietly.
“If you have never been suicidal, you might think that those who take their life are selfish, whereas to them, it’s their only means of escape,” she added.
The actress said she sought professional help through therapy and also leaned on her faith as part of her healing process.
“Therapy is great. I went to therapy too… but sometimes you need to return to your Maker for the perfect fix… It’s FREE,” she wrote.
Juliana expressed gratitude for recovery and encouraged others facing similar challenges not to give up.
“It is not the end! Don’t listen to that dark voice in your head. The sun will rise again,” she said.
Juliana has been active in the Nigerian film industry for over a decade and has featured in several films and television projects beyond Jenifa’s Diary.
