‘Bridgerton’ Star Ruby Barker Reveals Shocking Body Changes From Mental Health Struggles
Ruby Barker, best known for playing Marina Thompson in Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton, has opened up about how her mental health treatment affected her body. The 29-year-old actress shared a personal post on Instagram showing the impact of medication for her bipolar disorder on her metabolism.
In the video, Ruby was seen running on a treadmill at the gym. A close-up of the display showed her weight at 112.5 kg (248 pounds). She explained in the caption that this “medical weight gain” came as a result of eight months of treatment. “Many of you know my story and the battles I’ve faced living with bipolar disorder. This is the physical aftermath of eight months of treatment — and honestly, it’s brought a whole new mental challenge with it. Hooray,” she wrote.
Ruby credited her boyfriend, Oliver, for supporting her through this journey. “I’m doing what I can, and I’m grateful to have Oliver supporting me through it. Please wish me luck on this journey, because it isn’t easy. I truly empathise with anyone struggling with their weight — the comparison, the mirror, the constant mental noise,” she added.
The actress has also spoken about the challenges of seeing herself in the mirror and comparing her current weight to her past or to others. She emphasized the importance of patience while navigating the side effects of mental health medication. “It can feel like a living nightmare, and it doesn’t resolve overnight. But on a positive note: today is my fourth day vape-free, and I’m already feeling the benefits in my cardio. One step at a time,” Ruby said.
Ruby has previously criticized Netflix and producer Shondaland, saying that neither supported her after she experienced two psychotic breaks. She shared in a 2022 video, “I’ve been struggling since Bridgerton, this is the truth. I’ve been really unwell. I’m in hospital, I’m going to be discharged soon.”
Fans quickly responded to her latest post with encouragement, thanking her for bringing attention to the side effects of mental health treatment and the struggles many people face when dealing with medication-related weight changes.
Ruby’s story highlights the physical and mental impact that mental health conditions and their treatment can have, and she has been honest about taking her journey step by step.
Ruby Barker’s openness is powerful. It reminds us that mental health affects more than just our minds, it can change our bodies too. Sharing these experiences publicly can help others feel less alone in their struggles. What do you think about Ruby’s honesty and the challenges she has shared? Share your thoughts in the comments.