Introduction

Finn Wolfhard has opened up about the challenges he faced after achieving fame at just 13 years old through the blockbuster Netflix series, Stranger Things. Now 22, the actor wishes he had prioritized his mental health sooner and pursued therapy as he navigated his whirlwind rise to stardom.

Acknowledgment of Mental Health

In a candid interview with People, Wolfhard acknowledged the chaotic nature of his ascent to fame. "I didn't have any time to think about my mental health when everything happened so fast," he confessed. "If I could go back to when the show first premiered and exploded, I would definitely put myself into therapy."

Making Mistakes is Inevitable

Despite this regret, Wolfhard recognizes that making mistakes is an inevitable part of life. "Childhood and life in general revolve around trial and error. Even if I had gone to therapy, I would have likely made mistakes in other ways.”

Struggles with Anxiety

The actor has previously shared his struggles with panic attacks, a response to the mounting pressures of his "crazy whirlwind career." In a 2023 interview with GQ, he revealed, "Outwardly, everyone saw me as someone who was thriving. But internally, I was developing anxieties and pushing down emotions I didn't realize I needed to confront."

Reflecting on Stranger Things

As Stranger Things prepares to air its fifth and final season later this year, Wolfhard reminisces about the impact of the show on his life. He described his last day on the set as an "incredibly emotional" experience, comparing it to the poignant moment in Toy Story 3 when Andy says goodbye to his childhood toys. “It marked the end of a chapter that has defined my entire youth," he reflected. "The Duffer Brothers also grew up alongside this journey, and it’s been a special experience for all of us."

Looking Ahead

As he looks forward to his future in film, Wolfhard emphasizes the importance of acknowledging mental health in the entertainment industry and the lessons he wishes he had embraced sooner. As fans eagerly anticipate the final season, his story serves as a reminder of the complex emotional landscape young actors navigate in the pursuit of their dreams.