Bella Hadid has once again addressed the emotional challenges of living with Lyme disease. On November 14, 2023, the 28-year-old model utilized her Instagram platform to share her ongoing battle with this chronic illness, expressing that she continues to experience significant “medical anxiety” despite years of treatment. Hadid was diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2012 at the age of 16, a condition she shares with her mother, Yolanda Hadid, and her brother, Anwar Hadid.
Opening Up on Social Media
In a series of Instagram Stories, Hadid revealed her daily struggles with the illness. In her first post, she shared a meme that humorously illustrated the frustration of dealing with chronic illness, stating: “When your chronic illness is chronic illness-ing and someone says ‘it’s always something with you’ — like… yes… one might say the illness is… chronic.” This meme resonated with many followers, emphasizing the persistent nature of her condition.
Hadid’s second post took a more personal turn. She shared a message from influencer Alexandra Wildeson about the “duality” of living with chronic illness. Hadid added her own commentary, stating: “The medical anxiety is soooooo real. Thank you for putting every one of my thoughts and daily situations into one swipe. The truuuuuth!” This candid admission highlights the psychological impact of chronic illness, which often extends beyond physical symptoms.
The Impact of Lyme Disease
Lyme disease, transmitted through tick bites, can manifest in various debilitating symptoms, including joint pain, fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety. Over the years, Hadid has been open about how her condition affects both her personal life and her modeling career. Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, has previously described the challenges, stating that the illness can “bring you to your knees.” She has expressed concern for her daughter, recalling moments of exhaustion and chronic pain.
In September 2023, Bella Hadid provided an update on her treatment journey by posting photos from her hospital bed, revealing that she was receiving intravenous therapy. She captioned the images with a heartfelt message: “I’m sorry, I always go MIA. I love you guys.” Just days later, she shared another post that showcased her progress, featuring her walking on a treadmill for the first time in months. “Just walking, but still! Getting my stamina back,” she wrote, reflecting a sense of determination and hope.
Bella Hadid’s openness about her struggle with Lyme disease serves as a reminder of the hidden battles many individuals face with chronic illnesses. Her willingness to share her experiences on social media not only raises awareness but also fosters a sense of community among those who are similarly affected.
