This Instagram Post Reminds Us Even Disney Princesses Get 'Terrified' Sometimes

It’s hard to imagine a kid who hasn’t fallen in love with a Disney movie or wanted to be a Disney princess. But one “Disney princess” is reminding us that it’s OK to be who we are and experience anxiety or fear.

Broadway actress Patti Murin has played Anna from “Frozen” on stage since 2017. On Wednesday, Murin posted a photo of herself dressed as Anna. In the caption for the photo, she explained that she called out of Tuesday night’s show after having a “massive anxiety attack” earlier in the day.

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So last night I called out of the show because I had a massive anxiety attack in the afternoon. It had been building up for a while, and while the past month has been incredible, all of the ups and downs and stress and excitement really takes a toll on my mental health. I’ve learned that these situations aren’t something to “deal with” or “push through.” Anxiety and depression are real diseases that affect so many of us. It requires a lot of rest and self care to heal every time it becomes more than I can handle in my daily life. While I hate missing the show for any reason at all, Disney has been nothing but supportive of me as I navigate my life and work, and I’m so grateful to them. Just remember that you’re not alone, your feelings are real, and this is not your fault. Even Disney princesses are terrified sometimes.

A post shared by Pattimurin (@pattimurin) on Apr 18, 2018 at 7:32am PDT

Murin said self-care is important, even for Disney princesses. Those we idolize and admire are not immune to mental health issues, and situations that arise because of anxiety or depression “aren’t something to ‘deal with’ or ‘push through.’” Mental illness requires rest and healing time just like physical illnesses.

“Anxiety and depression are real diseases that affect so many of us,” she said. “It requires a lot of rest and self-care to heal every time it becomes more than I can handle in my daily life.”

Thankfully, Disney takes care of its princesses. Murin said the company has supported her as she juggles work and life. With the wisdom and grace synonymous with Disney princesses, Murin ended her post with an important reminder.

“Just remember that you’re not alone, your feelings are real, and this is not your fault. Even Disney princesses are terrified sometimes,” she said.