Nollywood actress Juliana Olayode, fondly known as Toyo Baby, has shared a deeply personal account of her quiet struggle with depression, revealing that she lived through nearly three years of emotional darkness while still showing up publicly as if everything was fine.
In an emotional Instagram post, the actress said she was battling depression and suicidal thoughts during that period, even though many around her never noticed.
“I was depressed and suicidal for almost three years. Of course, I showed up every day, as if I wasn’t struggling or dying inside,” she wrote.
Juliana explained that the experience changed her understanding of joy, describing it as something far more powerful than she ever imagined.
“Depression made me realise how much of a medicine joy is. My whole body was shutting down,” she said, adding that she was diagnosed with different health issues and gained weight — not just physically, but emotionally. Still not as much as the weight I was carrying inside.”
The actress used her story to address common misconceptions about depression, noting that those who have never experienced it often underestimate how overwhelming it can be.
“If you have never experienced depression, you might downplay what people go through. If you have never been suicidal, you might think people who take their life are selfish, whereas to them, it feels like the only means of escape.”
Juliana disclosed that she sought professional help, describing therapy as helpful, but said her turning point came when she leaned fully into her faith.
“Therapy is great. I went to therapy too, but sometimes you need to return to your Maker for the perfect fix… You only have to be vulnerable and say, ‘Fix me, Lord.’”
She expressed gratitude for what she described as complete healing.
“I thank God for complete healing and wholeness.”
Juliana said she decided to share her story after receiving numerous messages from people currently battling depression.
“It is not the end. Don’t listen to that dark voice in your head. The sun will rise again.”
She encouraged anyone struggling to speak up, seek help, and hold on to hope, reminding them that pain does not define the end of their story.
The actress has previously shown strong advocacy for emotional healing and recovery. Last year, she wrote an open note to victims of abuse, saying she continually prays for those carrying silent pain.
In 2022, Juliana also made headlines after publicly calling out her former spiritual mentor and manager, Pastor Timi Adigun, over control of her social media accounts and other allegations, which he denied. The episode further highlighted the complex personal challenges she has navigated outside the spotlight.
Juliana’s latest revelation has sparked widespread reactions online, with many praising her honesty and courage in using her platform to shed light on mental health struggles often hidden behind fame.