In this episode of Mental as Anyone, host Jonathan Moran sits down with the vibrant and multi-talented Chloe Hayden, actor, author, and advocate, for a refreshingly honest chat about mental health and identity.
Chloe explains why she prefers the term "autistic" over "living with autism," diving into the history and power of the language we use to describe ourselves.
The conversation gets real about the pressures of the entertainment industry, as Chloe opens up about experiencing cancel culture, dealing with severe rejection sensitivity dysphoria, and the importance of having a trusted "inner circle" to keep her grounded. Chloe also reflects on the massive impact of her character, Quinny, on Heartbreak High, calling for a future where disabled characters are written with lived experience and allowed to be more than just their diagnosis.
From stealing stickers at Netflix to the "trampoline" of support provided by her family, this episode is an insightful look at staying resilient while living life out loud.