Supernatural star Jared Padalecki is speaking out about his mental health challenges over the years, sharing what helped him through the “low” moments he has had. The actor revealed that he’s struggled with his mental health over the course of his career, something you wouldn’t know from watching Supernatural‘s many seasons or his other TV and film projects.

Per People, Padalecki touched on his struggles during an appearance at MegaCon Orlando this year, recalling how things like the 2023 Hollywood strikes and the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to them.

The actor also expressed gratitude for Supernatural‘s fan base, as he noted many viewers have been supportive of his mental health journey. Padalecki has been vocal about his experiences, and according to him, fans have been receptive to that — something he appreciates quite a bit:

“I just feel so grateful [for the fans] because I was very public about some of the s**t I was going through that I’ve been kind of not secret about but haven’t shared yet, and I was met with such love and acceptance that it meant a lot to me.”

This isn’t the first time the actor has opened up about his mental health, as he previously recalled seeking help at a clinic. Starting such conversations helps alleviate the stigma surrounding such struggles, which is something the Supernatural alum seems committed to doing.

Jared Padalecki Previously Spoke Out About Seeking Help For His Mental Health Struggles

He Opened Up About Going To A Clinic For Suicidal Ideation

During a 2024 interview with his wife, Genevieve Padalecki, on the I’ve Never Said This Before With Tommy DiDario podcast, Padalecki was candid about his experiences with his mental health. In particular, he recounted one time that he had suicidal thoughts, leading him to seek help from a clinic. The Supernatural star recalled how Genevieve stepped in and made sure he was all right:

“It was 2015. I had a really low moment. I was letting my thoughts take over and going to places of dramatic suicidal ideation. I called my wife, and she said, ‘Get home.’”

Padalecki then went to the facility for what he dubbed a “full reset,“ and he confirmed that he hasn’t “been suicidal since.” He emphasized not stigmatizing such an experience either, as his mental health challenges aren’t anything to be ashamed of. He encourages people to seek help when they need it, and he’s open about having to do so himself:

“I don’t wear it as a scarlet letter. It’s not like I’m shameful, like, ‘Hey, I see a therapist, I’ve been to a clinic.’ I wear it proudly. I put it on my face and tell everybody. If you’re not in a situation where you need that degree of help, then don’t seek it.”

Jared Padalecki Raises Money For Mental Health Awareness Through Always Keep Fighting

His Commitment To The Cause Makes Sense Given His Own Struggles

It’s great to see Padalecki speaking out about his mental health struggles, especially as doing so could help remove the stigma for fans of the actor and shows like Supernatural. This isn’t the only way that Padalecki is drawing attention to the topic, either. He’s an avid supporter of the cause in his personal life, as is evidenced by his Always Keep Fighting campaign.

Padalecki founded the Always Keep Fighting campaign in 2015, which raises money for charities that aid those struggling with their mental health. This includes To Write Love on Her Arms and The Wounded Warrior Project. Padalecki’s desire to help those grappling with depression and suicidal ideation makes sense when you consider his own history with both.

Padalecki’s co-stars, Jensen Ackles and Misha Collins, have also shown support for his Always Keep Fighting campaign, driving home just how much the entire Supernatural community cares about the cause. And Padalecki’s words indicate that the support has made a difference.

Source: People, I’ve Never Said This Before With Tommy DiDario