X-Men star Alexandra Shipp shares struggles with mental health during her time as Storm.

TW/S*

Alexandra Shipp opened up about her struggles with mental health, particularly during her tenure as Storm between X-MEN: APOCALYPSE and DARK PHOENIX. Posting a video to her Instagram, with clips of her filming the final X-Men film, she wrote:

“At this time, I was struggling with my self worth. I felt unworthy, not enough, and lonely. I trained to be the best Storm I could possibly be and was constantly told I wasn’t enough. As a black woman in Hollywood, I am consistently compared to and forced to compare myself to others. It’s degrading and can take a toll. So I suffered in silence. I numbed myself. I isolated myself. I sided with the thoughts that told me the world would be better off without me. When people ask me if I’ll reprise my role I tell them no. I don’t need to go back to her.”

Shipp received harsh criticism on social media from people who felt she didn’t look like the comic book character, with some accusing her casting as being colorist. Some feel the role should be portrayed by an actor of darker complexion. Thing is, Shipp’s casting was based off her being a younger version of Halle Berry’s Ororo Munroe.

“I look back at moments like this, where I should be at my highest, and only see my lowest,” she continued in her post. I didn’t have to suffer, but I chose to because I thought no one would care or notice. I didn’t want to burden anyone. But we are not burdens, we are beacons. We are the light at the end of the tunnel. We are magnificent.”

Click here to read her full inspirational message, and know that you are not alone. If you or a loved one is considering harming themselves or experiencing emotional distress, there are resources available. Call 1-800-273-8255 to speak with someone today.