Mara Wilson: My Diagnosis Saved Me
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 ธ.ค. 2022
- Mara Wilson (writer, actor - Mrs. Doubtfire, Matilda) opens up about body dysmorphia, living with severe OCD, and the grief of losing her mother at an early age. She details what it was like working with the late, great Robin Williams on Mrs. Doubtfire, her struggle to overcome her “cute” image she became well-known for during those years, and how that fed into her body dysmorphia. Mara discusses growing up a sensitive child, her family’s own intergenerational trauma, and how it tied into her own mental health struggles, imposter syndrome, and living up to labels. She considers her experiences with therapy and medication, her spiritual journey, and the differences between dating boys and girls. Mayim and Mara debunk the myths of severe OCD and explain what living with it is really like.
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Theme Song Written, Produced, and Performed by Ed Robertson. Mixed by Kenny Luong.
#MayimBialik #BialikBreakdown #MaraWilson
"When a child is told they're gifted, that sometimes [puts] this undue pressure on them and makes them feel [that] their self-concept is threatened every time they make a mistake."
Letting it sink in 🙃
And an expectation that they will change the world or lead others rather than allowing them to grow their own way ❤
I feel this. 😢
Well this happens to anyone who applies a self identity/concept on themselves. (which is most humans) Any concept you apply to yourself you can fail at....mother, father, gifted, special, masculine, feminine, lawyer, artist, a 'nice' person.......whatever the label--you can fail at--and the ego identity is hurt--thus the suffering. Because identity is everything to the ego--and diminishing the identity feels like death to the ego. Ultimately, everyone's suffering is identity created by the ego. Whether you think you're somebody, or a nobody, that's an identity. You could hold the door open for someone, and they walk through ignoring you and your sense of being a somebody gets threatened because they treated you like you didn't exist---which triggers anger and fear. You can have an identity of being a nobody and worthless---then when someone treats you real well your ego won't let it in. Basically whatever label or belief you have for yourself your ego will try very hard to live up to, even if it's a negative belief/concept. (and at some point it will fail and break the illusion) Spirituality 101.
@@dennispena5496 "Pain without complain ain't much pleasure at all." -- Tom Klarfeld
Thank you Mara and Mayim for talking about OCD openly and honestly. Such a misunderstood condition, drives me crazy when people think that being 'neat' or a 'clean freak' equals OCD. Contrary to popular belief, people with OCD are often very messy because they are so focused on their obsessions and compulsions that they have trouble functioning on a daily basis.
Matilda and Mayim in the same video where has this been my entire life.
My mom died when I was 10 and my dad died when I was 12. It was definitely like what Mara said the single most defining moments in my life. And it remains so.
I'm so sorry you had to go through that. ❤️
Please please be mindful of Better Help. There are issues being reported about their integrity. Please research.
They kept matching me with people who didn't have availability for over a week or two. That's a long time to wait when you need someone to talk to 😞
Seems like you need me to do some research because reality check not making afford. It already has insurance. I’ll pay for it because insurance sometimes won’t pay for shit and then on top of that. I hope that you can pay for they don’t really help you. Oh yeah, you need to research on that crap
@@tammiepage6489did you have a stroke typing that? Because I can’t understand any of it
You just have to match with the right therapist. I got messed about with the first one who cancelled on me 3 times and only 5 minutes before we were due to start. I put in a complaint about her and choose someone else who is fantastic. Best on luck on your healing journeys!
I had no idea of her background with that kind of loss. She sounds like such a grounded, objective human being.
Right
It's a relief to hear from someone else who was diagnosed with OCD at a young age--and who gets that the stereotypes aren't always true
This is like being part of a best friends conversation. With each friend being articulate and informed. I'm stunned.
Thank you so much for sharing accurate information about OCD. 💜It's super important. I also met Mara at the international OCD conference. She's an amazing person.
So glad this is on TH-cam. I need a visual to hold my attention. Very informative interview!
Great convo!! Very cool girl. Thanks for this!
One of your best interviews, Mayim. And Maria is so smart. Thank you for sharing 💗
I absolutely adore Mara Wilson as a person. Thank you for sharing this interview with us.
such a great episode, thank you so much for these every week. i look forward to them ❤
Now I wanna binge watch everything she has done!
Aah! I popped in to see what the diagnosis was and was captured by the whole interview. When you spoke of Mara losing her mother at eight, it really took be back. My children’s dad died when they were 8, 11 &13. Of course I knew it was a big loss for them, but hearing two smart women discuss just HOW it hit, what it meant, made me really sit and think about it. My kids are all in their 30’s now, but I know that it still affects their lives every day. The whole conversation on appearance and people’s comments about it enrages me because a) you’re talking about a freaking child and b) I think that the two of you are stunning. I even said to my husband “boy, they sure aged well!” I think that you’re both stunning ❤ Smart, talented, and beautiful, y’all got it all. Thank you for a great show, I quite enjoyed the whole thing.
Thoroughly enjoying keeping up with your podcast ever since I stumbled upon it with the Dr Gabor Mate episode. I love Mara Wilson and it’s been so nice getting to know more about her as a human being beyond the set and stage.
It's interesting to hear Mara say that her Mother always wanted her to be smart and strong, but in the movies she was depicted as just cute or adorable, because I thought in Miracle on 34th St. and Matilda, and really other places I saw her, she seemed like a very smart, strong little girl. Yes she was adorable too, but what always struck me was that she was cast as witty and smart and able. I love seeing her now, and hearing how she grew up and about the person she is now.
Mayim, you did a great job on this interview and it was a warm place for Mara to extend her story. 👏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks for such videos. Mental health is important
Omg I'm so excited to see mara Wilson loved watching her movie's when I was a kid thanks for inviting her mayim 🙂💜💜💜💜
This was a great interview and an even better conversation. I'm a subscriber as of today. Happy New Year.
Thank you both for this it was a lovely conversation to witness.
How painful but at the same time how rewarding is to see the hard way “my” adored Matilda has gone through. Such sad pinch in my stomach watching the void in all senses the premature lost of her mom had left in her, whose scars are still there to me. How rewarding to see her overcome all difficults with enormous wisdom & strenght!
Such sweet & sour rollercoaster episode with an exceptionally wise & wonderful guest!
Btw, belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY Mayim! 💜
Great presentation. Thank you 👏
Amazing thought-provoking interview. Interesting from both Mara and Mayim’s perspectives. You are both so intertwined with my childhood ❤x
It is so awesome that you have Mara Wilson today in this episode and I hoped that you had a really wonderful birthday beautiful Mayim!
I can truly relate to Mara so well. I lost my mom at the age of nine and it is hard at times. Im going to b 56 next month and still hurts. I can truly b real to myself now. Still have my best friend of 47 years to rely on to focus on me. Thanks for this experience to share with us. All your episodes have been great to listen or watch every week. Continue in doing the best in showing the other side of life.
You two have some things in common, which is why I loved this conversation so much. I remember watching Mrs. Doubtfire, Miracle on 34th Street and Matilda growing up, even Blossom, and The Big Bang Theory :)
I lost my Mom when I was 8 yrs old, also, and really related a lot to Mara! I always enjoy your podcasts, Mayim!! I hope you both have a blessed, happy new year!!
Ohmygod Mars Wilson is one of my favorites - and Mayim is a hero of mine, seeing you guys together and is a true gift.
Such a dream episode for me. Love you both so much!🥰
I just needed to comment - I have had pure O type of ocd for nearly my entire life - it’s a torment that most people cannot conceive - to be petrified of your own mind and thoughts is indescribable - I’ve had existential pure o and never knew what it was or how to describe it - antidepressants failed and caused me a severe adverse reaction and I suffered for so long - I am finally figuring out what’s wrong and learning that rumination is my main compulsion - I’m so glad people like Mayim are using their platform to bring awareness to this very very misunderstood condition -
Matilda is way on the top of my favorites list! It brings me joy!
These ladies are so incredibly smart. Love listening to them. This podcast was so captivating. Can’t wait to watch more of her podcast. Ty
Omg I've never known an actress that I can relate so much to!!! 3 years younger than me, also Irish, also have mh in the family, also did acting as a child, also attracted to women, also loved to tell stories as a child, also loved to be well behaved, a bit geeky and sensitive, also lower middle class and on SSRIs. Thank you for having her on the show! Xxx
My father died 5 years ago and I'm not sure I've dealt with it properly. Some days are harder than others but there are people like Mara who give me hope for the future. I have loved her since Mrs. Doubtfire and Miracle on 34th Street so thank you for sharing her story Mayim
You both are such a blessing. Thank you for having Mara on to share her story. I hope nothing but good for her and you, Mayim.
Oh wow cool to hear the conversation. Chill talk
I suffer with anxiety related OCD and it is hellish. Nice to see a celebrity bringing more attention to it
Lovely podcast! I love Mara
I got Mara’s book on Audible and I HIGHLY recommend!
As someone who lost their mom at 9 I really appreciated hearing from someone who has had a similar loss and whose insights about it I really identify with.
I like how it was just ya two in this interview.
My name is also Miriam and as a kid also wondered about my name having the meaning of bitter so funny to hear others with the same thoughts as kids... Loved the interview!!
Fantastic Episode! Have a good Week and Seasons greetings And Happy Holidays! 😊👍✊👊🖖🍁♈
Loved this! Great women!
I read Mara's book earlier this year & thought she'd be a great guest for you to have on. Mara's explanation of figuring out she has OCD sounds similar to me with autism. I was reading something that sounded very similar to my experiences. Did a little more research & later learned I am autistic. Sometimes it just takes one little thing for everything to fall into place to make the world make sense
So true dear Kristin! Sometimes is only needed a little “click” to occur and all falls into place to own world make sense. Brava, my dear! Biggest hugs! ❤
I was curious if she could be on the spectrum herself. I was surprised also by her not having much visual representation or memory.
this is the most useful podcast for people like us, alcoholics, with ADHD, bipolar, borderline, suicide survivors or just damaged or broken. Thank you Mayim for being so brave, you inspired me to be me since Blossom and now you inspire me to be brave and battle my demons everyday. I too deserve to be happy! Gracias!!!
Good morning mayim so cute today. Enjoyed the video
Mara Wilson is so interesting. I am 9 years older than her, so I wasn't really interested in her films, because they were children's movies and I was a teenager at the time! So, I haven't really payed much attention or followed her career at all. I wish she would make films now as an adult. I would definitely watch them. I am curious about her stand up work too. Great interview Mayim! Thank you.
You didn't even watch Mrs. Doubtfire? That was a huge movie, and I recall enjoying it -- and I'm also a lot older than Mara.
Mrs. Doubtfire is and "everybody" film
Mara, you are just as talented as Steep. My oldest who has ASD, adores you because of your honest acting roles.
Thank you for saying " than me"!
"I'd love to be her friend... so I'll try and do that"😍... you've got to love Mayim ☺️
Mayim! I really have enjoyed and loved your podcasts collaborations. I appreciate you for speaking about mental health issues and get to speak with these iconic people and what they have gone through. This is a place to feel accepted and I just wanted ti say thank you! Happy Holidays!
One of my daughter’s favourite movies is Matilda. She is a great actress.
As a AVA who works outside of Los Angeles. I have grown up with kids in the industry and a dad who worked in film distribution. Hollywood is just around and accessible. Mara is my hero. I have adult ADHD and OCD and anxiety but I internalized all of it. To hear others talk about something I had since I was 4. I've been a worrier, an empath but I was out going and chatty and sing songey.
Mayin you are very good interviewer.
Illuminating episode. Is there a place where we can read more on this thesis involving perfect pitch?
I loved her in Miracle on 34th Street. It is my favorite version of that movie.
41:40 I’ve just starting watching your videos and they are awesome.
Such a wonderful podcast! Mara is indeed very brave for opening up about her vulnerabilities. I admit it took me until after college to realize I'm an asexual/demisexual. I'm not attracted to either sex, and I need a deep connection in order to even feel anything for someone, hence my husband had to--and still does--work hard for my attention and affection LOL
Hi Mayim Bialik I live here in Louisville Kentucky all my life, I watch the sitcom your in "Call me Cat" it's so funny it was base on a BBC show now it a show in America. 👋👋👋 I like Mara Wilson was a cute child star. Thanks for sharing.🙂
I agree with Mara on alot of issues that I honestly can relate to. I do know from personal experience that pressure is put on you even when you are not on tv., etc. but are in a position of expectation. I know that because my father was Choir director and had alot of leads in musicals here. I was in the Choir so I sang in front of people every Sunday which also added on pressure to be "Perfect". When a musical was on, the only thing that changed was more work. I was just never paid for that work and never taught that you should ever want to be paid. I was taught that money was evil. I also was diagnosed with Epilepsy at 12yrs so was dealing with going to muliple Dr.s, etc. If I had a seizure in front of people, I would be taken into a room and watched after by the Preachers wife. Seizures usually knocked me out! The theatre took my mind off it though and although at first theatre wasn't fun to me, it became a sanctuary. It was like Harry Potter going to Hogwarts! Due to that in my high school, I had to get used to things like my music teacher running around on the first day of school screaming that she had my fathers daughter in her class. My father was not internationally known, etc. He only had leads in a few small SCAD films. Still, if that isn't pressure, I certainly don't know what is. Still, my mind was so filled with just trying to live each day that my brain honestly took on little else. Plus, I ended up really loving my music teacher. At the same time, I understand Mayim as well because I did NOT have the pressure of adults wanting me to take roles, etc. That is something that I was kept from because my mother never believed that was the right place for me to be, etc. as a small child. I was only taken to theatre at 15yrs because it was illegal to leave me home alone. Still, I'm sure she did what she thought was best. I DID question the difference in pressure for awhile there though. Even today, I consider everyone in that arts family to a point because I still see a connection in all honesty. That may be because I was brought to theatre at such a young age. I do not know! All I know is I react in a COMPLETELY different way when someone well known even visits. As far as being bi goes. It's REALLY hard growing up bi! Personally I came out at 15/16yrs because I was a late bloomer and started liking girls as soon as I liked boys. I didn't have the experience Mara had though because I was mainly girly when I was REALLY young. I also was exposed to the sexual side of theatre by the time I was 15yrs but not NEARLY as much as many others. My sister is fully gay and was known as a Lesbian. Due to that, I was told by some that I was just trying to be like her, which made me question myself. Like Mara though, I noticed things and fell for people who never seemed to react the same way. I also always wanted to simply be with someone who wanted to be like the older couples I saw who grew old together. To find that ONE person who would fully understand and be there forever was something I always wanted. I was always attracted to both sexes too. Due to that, MAN! I was confused as heck! It's a REALLY hard place to be but today I realise that it's really mainly the soul that I fall for. I don't know if that was the case when I was younger. I honestly seemed more interested in sex growing up. I STILL find the body beautiful don't get me wrong!! I just find the Spirit adds to that beauty. To be honest, I don't really date at the moment because I do not feel that I'm in a place to date. Until that time, I'm happy just being who I am. I hope you all are happy too and send you all the love in the world! Wonderful podcast. I love it! Two absolutely beautiful and talented people. Thanks for the smiles!!! 💜🎭💜
Just watched Miracle for the umpteenth time. We will always tell Mara by her eyes and mouth. They say those features never change and they are correct.
My Mother's Maiden name was also a Wilson.
Mayim Aka blossom and Mara aka Matilda are both so iconic they are my whole childhood they are amazing actresses and I am so sorry for your lost Mara 🙏🏽❤️
Smart ladies!
shes pivotal to my childhood
I’m also attracted to femininity. My first boyfriend was actually gay (af) but he wasn’t out at the time obv . I came out as bisexual when I was a teenager but it was always so much easier to flirt with guys. I would get so nervous to even talk to a girl I liked. I could literally ramble about this for hours 😂 What I’m trying to say is : I relate to so much of what Mara said.
Truly loved the episode. Thank you Mayim for always making sure the guests are comfortable while sharing such personal stuff about themselves. You actually cares and it shows.
Loved Mayim outfit
Mara mentioning Dakota Fanning made me want her on the podcast so bad!!!
After watching some child actors in this podcast and Mayim’s words about the “manipulation that has to occur”, and most of the times the result of these kids being fagocited/hurt by the TV/cinema industry/system if they’re not wise or brave enough as Mara (and Mayim) has been, I ask myself ab the ethics surrounding an industry (that we eagerly consume) that eats childhoods in so raw way.
I appreciate a lot more the work behind scenes of parents as the Bialiks, specially Bev, has done! Bravo for them!❤
I mean, there is a reason why child labour is against the law... so how come, it's still ok as long as it's the entertainment and fashion industry!?
@@moonhunter9993 Don’t get me wrong. Nor try to misguide others tegarding the sense of my post that was not what you said. I never said anything of “child labor” being against any law. This kind of “Child labor” as you call it is perfectly regulated protecting the children both in the US and Europe. Quite well regulated. And are not what commonly is understood as child labor in Third and Fouth World countries. Don’t be a demagogue.
My post was that some kids without conscious parents/tutors who guide them keeping them grounded are in danger of being treated only as a product or something disposable when not interesting.
@@marisamartinezolivera Oh, pleeeaaassseee. Get over yourself. I know it's regulated. I also love acting (even as a teenager). But it IS child labour! So, no, I don't care what anyone says: being a PROFESSIONAL child actor is going to be bad for a kid. How bad may depend on the factors you mention but still... And btw. why do you sound sooo condescending.
@@moonhunter9993 Condescending? Absolutely not. But perhaps it’s my age and experience that keep me away from absolute truths. The world is not black or white. It's a huge amount of shades of gray. Said that, I quit discussing. Never liked to throw the ball against a wall. Have a nice day.
@@marisamartinezolivera age? oh, man. You still sound condescending. Good bye.
I love these interviews and thank you for posting them... but I have to say I'd enjoy them even more if the video quality were better! You've got these world famous movie stars and musicians opening up and telling personal stories, but the video source looks like a $20 webcam from 20 years ago. But hey, at least the audio quality is always perfect, and that's the top priority.
Can't wait to see your next time hosting Jeopardy btw. Ken does a great job, but you're even better.
I think the video quality depends on what the interviewee has on their end!
Omgd MATILDA! I love her!
Mara, I’m only about three years older than you. The humor in Mrs. Doubtfire went over my head too. I get a lot more out of it as an adult.
Love the videos as always especially this one. Can I ask why would you still be sponsored by better health after all the scandals that have happened with the company.
What scandals 🤔
@@angelaholmes8888 have a look online plenty of articles about it and videos done by youtubers who won't have them as a sponsor
It's awful to lose people Dr Bialik. I didn't know Mara Wilson had OCD like Sheldon. I hope you had a nice birthday Dr Bialik. Thank you for your really great performance as Amy Farrah Fowler in Big Bang Theory: the best fictional woman character ever made in my opinion. I found Amy very similar to me in the show. Nobody could've played her better than you. Also thank you for all the lessons Amy taught me Amy is really important to me. Big Bang Theory has also a lot of meaning to me. You're my favorite actress ever! I hope you someday get a star in the walk of fame! I also hope you someday reprise your role as Amy on a spin-off prequel called Young Amy like Young Sheldon by narrating it!
Omg. Finally, someone who is relatable via sexuality. Thank you.
I love ‘Matilda’ so much I named my puppy girl Matilda. 💖
Good morning.
Ladies I'm sorry for your experiences but unfortunately you're both just adorable...you were then and you are now. It may be impossible to believe but its less about your looks than you think. Fabulous woman are just fabulous. Thats why you got the work...its something else that sets you apart from the other woman with fab looks and not the IT to go with that both of you had. I wonder if Myam even knows she absolutely owned Big Bang since she arrived. Love you both
YEEESS!! BLOSSOM WAS THE COOL OLDER SHOW!!!
rhea perlman was on Blossom when she got her wishes . like for world peace
Mayim, I really enjoy your videos. I am an actor myself but can't seem to catch a break. I was wondering if you could help me.
People used to say my daughter when she was little looked like Matilda and I was so flattered.
At the end of the conversation, you mention stand-up comedy and I am wondering if Mara is now involved in that?
I was brought to this podcast via stand-up comedy (one of your guests) and I listen to many comedians' podcasts and watch so many stand-up specials. And as Mara spoke about how words matter and how she knew at a very young age that they were important and could change the emotion that was felt by the listener, and she spoke about the ability to mirror back exactly what was said to her and continually perform the same lines verbatim over and over again, I thought that is a perfect skill set for a stand up comedian or comedic actor. I would love to know if she is working on a stand-up act or a comedic role.
Mara was in a film Bastard Out of Carolina. It haunts me. It was awful brutal and how did she ever get through that film as a child? It is one of the sickest films I’ve ever seen😢😢
Mara Wilson wasn’t in that movie 😐
@@00metta00 some young child actor was. Always thought it was Mara😨
@@darnitthelma4247 It was Jena Malone. But back then they really kinda looked alike.
Mara Wilson making a Silver Chair reference. 90s awesomeness
I would love to see you talk to Lindsay Ellis if she were willing! Anytime I see Mara somewhere, I think of Lindsay and hope that someday they can reconcile 😔
100% second chatting to Lindsay Ellis and also Nathalie Wynn (ContraPoints). It would make for a simmering conversation from everything to pop-culture to rights and how we define freedom-- I don't know, I just know I'd love to hear the fascinating conversations.
I really missed Jonathan. Will he be back for the next episode?
Miss not seeing /hearing Johnathan
I’ve been studying Rabbi Tirzah Firestone, healing inter generational trauma. Fantastic stuff!
Two of my favourite women. Thank you. Sending love from London Uk. X
I only knew she was Jewish because I was watching one of those "Live TV outtake" type shows. Someone asked her on the red carpet (I assume around the time of Matilda) if she believed in Santa Claus, and she said "No, I'm Jewish!"
Love you Mayim, but you just have too many ads. Will listen on another platform.
Watch on TH-cam. You can fast forward through the commercials.
Mrs. Doubtfire❤
Would you ever think about talking to a “mainstream “ wrestler? I’m a fanatic!
That's so interesting about models. I swear I was surrounded by them on the same set before, and they kept mentioning her and her and others and saying she has a degree or etc. I'm like huh?.. But I'm one to pass my time listening to everyone, solving chair conflicts, and making it memorable. Ooh. That was so not cool who they mentioned and tear sheets etc. Safety for child actors later. .. Actors saying you made it to me is a problem. To me it's just one spoke in the whole, but since it's the visual and somehow got twisted in it's vanity as a Star. The credits are endless, and what a feat from idea to final print and that should be most important. Separate from that hm... I feel the daily life and it suddenly ends and then it's like me immigrating or so many others splitting families a new father ... To me it was shocking. So relative to others in similar ways there's so much more to I'm sure which are gaps. And it's lifelong process. Wars they up and leave a new start refugees similar and it is. This one way of living all of a sudden changes, new separations, new relations to deal and we can't pick and choose the given but make it all fit and click and find it all fascinating blind sighting the criticisms.
I guess it would be funny if Mara Wilson lived in Simcoe County, Ontario, which has a Mara Township and provincial park.
❤️
Some of Mara’s descriptions remind me of a woman I know who is on the spectrum. Specifically about lack of visual imagination and strong auditory memory.
I was thinking same thing. Most girls / women go undiagnosed due to masking and many are diagnosed incorrectly.
I am on the spectrum and a much stronger visual learner by far. I have auditory processing issues. I have read that the dominant learning style is primarily visual with autism? Of course that's not a diagnostic criteria (auditory learning difficulties per se) but speech is often impacted. I had regressive speech and then caught up and now speak well. It's interesting.
I have also read that those with what used to be called Aspergers generally were more likely to have non-verbal learning difficulties but those with at the time...what was considered classic autism were more likely to have verbal learning difficulties. This might have been what lead to the separation of AS and ASD, even if AS is now considered in the subset.
Fascinating. I think there are many shadow conditions. I also think that if someone is autistic and also has OCD...the OCD often gets missed.