Scheana Shay Opens Up About Her Battle with Depression

How public figures sharing their mental health challenges can help others feel less alone and more willing to seek support

What Did Scheana Shay Say About Her Depression?

Scheana Shay, best known for her role on Vanderpump Rules, got real on her podcast Scheananigans about a subject often glossed over in the influencer world—depression. In the episode titled "Mental Health Is Health", Shay opened up about struggling for the past six months, revealing changes to her medication and feelings of emotional exhaustion.

“I have been adjusting my Zoloft dosage, and it’s been a tough process,” she shared. “Some days I just feel like I’m failing at everything.”

Her candid disclosure didn’t end with just the meds. Shay spoke about postpartum OCD, emotional isolation, and the pressures of motherhood under public scrutiny.

Is Mental Health in Celebrities Taken Seriously?

For years, the public viewed celebrity emotional struggles as dramatic or attention-seeking. That’s starting to change. A 2022 APA survey found that 78% of Americans believe mental health is just as important as physical health, and more are applauding when public figures like Shay speak out.

Shay is far from alone. Selena Gomez has spoken publicly about bipolar disorder, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson revealed his past battles with depression. Their transparency highlights a shift: mental health is not a trend, it’s part of real life.

Why Are Moms Especially at Risk for Postpartum OCD?

Postpartum OCD affects around 2–3% of new mothers, according to the International OCD Foundation. It’s characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsions, often centered around the baby’s safety. Shay admitted she experienced a flood of these thoughts after giving birth.

A recent study found that mothers with postpartum OCD are more likely to suffer in silence because of fear of judgment. That’s why voices like Shay’s matter—by talking about her symptoms openly, she’s helping others name theirs.

How Do Medication Adjustments Affect Mental Health?

Shay specifically mentioned adjusting her Zoloft dosage, which may sound like a minor tweak but can trigger weeks of mood swings, fatigue, and emotional volatility. Zoloft (sertraline) is a widely prescribed SSRI used for depression, anxiety, and OCD.

According to Mayo Clinic, changes in SSRIs should be managed carefully and under medical supervision, as sudden increases or decreases can lead to withdrawal symptoms or serotonin imbalance.

How Can We Normalize Talking About Depression?

The answer might lie in doing exactly what Shay did: talk about it plainly, without needing a major “mental health awareness month” to give permission.

“I don’t want a bunch of people checking in just because I’m a celebrity. I want them to check in on themselves,” she said.

Mental health awareness doesn’t always come from a therapist’s office or a well-funded campaign. Sometimes, it starts with a podcast, a candid voice, and the courage to say “I’m not okay.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, consider reaching out to resources like Mental Health America or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical or mental health condition. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional or licensed mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.