Bella Hadid has opened up about her ongoing battle with Lyme disease, highlighting the emotional strain it has placed on her life. On November 14, 2023, the 28-year-old model took to Instagram to express her experiences with chronic illness, revealing that she continues to face significant “medical anxiety” despite years of treatment.
Hadid was first diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2012 when she was just 16 years old, a diagnosis shared with her mother, Yolanda Hadid, and her brother, Anwar Hadid. This chronic condition, transmitted through tick bites, can lead to a range of debilitating symptoms, including joint pain, fatigue, and anxiety.
In her Instagram Stories, Hadid shared two poignant posts that reflect her daily struggles. The first was a meme that humorously captured the frustration of living with a 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 resonated with many, as it succinctly encapsulated the ongoing challenges faced by those with similar conditions.
In a more personal reflection, Hadid reposted a message from influencer Alexandra Wildeson, discussing the “duality” of living with chronic illness. In her own words, Hadid noted, “The medical anxiety is soooooo real. Thank you for putting every one of my thoughts and daily situations into one swipe. The truuuuuth!” Her candid remarks underline the psychological toll that Lyme disease can impose, alongside the physical symptoms.
For years, Hadid has been vocal about how her condition has affected her career and personal life. Her mother, Yolanda, previously shared insights with People magazine, explaining how the illness can “bring you to your knees.” She recounted witnessing her daughter’s struggles with exhaustion and chronic pain, illustrating the profound impact of the disease on their family.
In September 2023, Bella provided an update on her health, posting photos from a hospital bed as she continued her treatment. The images depicted her connected to IV bags, accompanied by the message: “I’m sorry, I always go MIA. I love you guys.” Shortly thereafter, she shared a hopeful update, showing herself walking on a treadmill for the first time in months. “Just walking, but still! Getting my stamina back,” she wrote, reflecting her determination to regain her strength.
Hadid’s openness about her journey serves to raise awareness about Lyme disease and the often invisible struggles faced by those living with chronic illnesses. Her candid approach not only connects with her fans but also sheds light on the real-life implications of such conditions.
