'Bridgerton's' Ruby Barker gets candid about recent mental health hospitalization

Things seem glamorous in Mayfair, London, but Ruby Barker, Bridgerton's Marina Thompson, has been struggling behind the scenes.

In a candid Instagram reveal on May 26, the Netflix actress admitted that she's been hospitalized for a mental health condition, a diagnosis which she promises to disclose at a later time. 

Her five-minute video discussed her journey and hopes going forward, which is the kind of encouragement others will find helpful during Mental Health Awareness Month 2022—and beyond.

"So, I'm in the hospital at the minute, I'm gonna get discharged soon and hopefully get to continue with my life and I'm gonna take a little bit of a break from myself," the actress said. "And I want to encourage others, if you are struggling, please do yourself a favor. Take a break, stop being so hard on yourself."

She is one of many actors and musicians to be frank about her struggles. The Selena Gomez mental health platform Wondermind just launched with hopes of providing a safe space for those going through difficulties. Meanwhile, the Simone Biles' mental health narrative during the Olympics helped athletes learn their limits and take a rest when needed. The list goes on—just have a look at the best celebrity quotes for proof. 

Barker thanked Shonda Rhimes and Netflix in her video for "saving" her and she looks forward to finding balance in her life once more. 

"I cannot wait to fulfill all of my engagements and to have a good career and a good life. Because I do not want my diagnosis to be a self-fulfilling prophecy. I want to survive and I will survive, and I'm going to. And so are you," she said. 

If you feel as though you need a time out, have a look at the differences between therapy vs counseling to see what's right for you. Enjoy some me-time with the best self-care practices and remember that it's OK to ask for help.