Supermodel Bella Hadid has openly discussed her struggles with “medical anxiety” in connection to her chronic Lyme disease, using her Instagram platform to share the daily realities of living with a persistent health condition.
On November 14, 2025, Bella Hadid took to her Instagram Stories to post a meme that read, “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.” She followed this with a re-share from influencer Alexandra Wildeson’s post titled “The Duality of life with chronic illness,” adding her own comment: “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 revelation highlights the psychological challenges that often accompany long-term health issues, resonating with many who face similar invisible struggles.
Hadid’s battle with Lyme disease dates back to 2012 when she was diagnosed at age 16, alongside her mother Yolanda and brother Anwar. The tick-borne illness has plagued her with symptoms such as severe joint pain, anxiety, brain fog, and extreme fatigue, often described by her family as bringing one “to your knees.” Over the years, she has undergone various treatments to manage the condition, which can cause debilitating effects that impact daily life and mental well-being. Her openness about these experiences helps shed light on the often-misunderstood nature of chronic illnesses.
Recent months have seen Hadid undergoing intensive treatment, as evidenced by photos she shared from a hospital bed in September 2025. In these images, she was hooked up to IV bags and appeared distressed, captioning them with an apology for her absence and expressions of love for her followers. Despite this, she later posted about returning to the gym, signaling efforts to rebuild her stamina and maintain a sense of normalcy amid her health challenges. This cycle of treatment and recovery underscores the relentless nature of chronic conditions like Lyme disease.
Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, has been a steadfast supporter, publicly sharing her anguish over watching Bella “struggle in silence.” In Instagram posts, Yolanda described the “invisible disability” of chronic neurological Lyme disease and praised her daughter’s bravery, calling her a “survivor” who continues to fight for better days despite numerous setbacks. Yolanda, who also battles Lyme disease, has emphasized the familial impact, noting how helpless it feels to see a loved one endure such pain without visible outward signs.
Hadid’s openness comes amid her professional commitments, including walking in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show last month, where she carried heavy angel wings, and participating in Paris Fashion Week shortly after her hospital stay. This highlights her determination to balance her health challenges with a demanding career in modeling, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. Her ability to perform at high-profile events while managing her illness inspires others to pursue their passions despite health obstacles.
By speaking out, Hadid sheds light on the often-overlooked psychological toll of chronic illnesses, particularly medical anxiety—the fear and stress associated with ongoing medical treatments and uncertainties. Her candidness helps normalize conversations around mental health and invisible disabilities, encouraging others in similar situations to share their experiences. This advocacy is crucial for reducing stigma and fostering a more supportive environment for those with chronic conditions.
Looking ahead, Hadid’s journey underscores the importance of support systems and medical care in managing chronic conditions. Her story resonates with many, offering hope and visibility to those facing similar battles, and emphasizing that with resilience, it is possible to navigate the complexities of long-term health issues. As she continues to speak out, she contributes to a broader dialogue on health, wellness, and the intersection of physical and mental well-being.
