Aimee Lou Wood's Journey Through Acting and Mental Health
Aimee Lou Wood is an English actress and writer who began her career on stage and earned the BAFTA Television Award for Best Female Comedy Performance for her role in Sex Education. Over the years, she has appeared in various shows and films including Film Club, Toxic Town, Daddy Issues, The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, Uncle Vanya, and Living.
Overcoming Body Dysmorphia Through Character Work
Aimee revealed that her role as Chelsea in The White Lotus helped her confront and manage her body dysmorphia. By focusing on her character’s desires rather than her own insecurities, she found a new perspective that allowed her to "shake" off negative feelings.
"I shook myself out of it by thinking, 'It’s not about whether Aimee wants to show her body or not – Chelsea does.' Acting has always been a safe place for me to work out my feelings."
She explained how acting enables her to process emotions deeply, saying roles often affect her "in the heart, in the gut."
Mental Health Challenges and Growth
Beyond body dysmorphia, Aimee has struggled with bulimia and social anxiety during her teenage years. She was also diagnosed with ADHD earlier in 2025. Discussing her mental health with Radio Times in September 2025, she shared how acting has helped shift her mindset.
"I don’t need everyone to understand me. The people that get me, get me."
Personal Reflection on Acting
Aimee admitted that she sometimes takes time to detach from a character but ultimately values the emotional growth gained from each role. This process is a significant part of what she enjoys most about her job.
Selected Filmography
- Sex Education
- Film Club
- Toxic Town
- Daddy Issues
- The Electrical Life of Louis Wain
- Uncle Vanya
- Living
Author's summary: Aimee Lou Wood has used her acting roles, especially in The White Lotus, to overcome personal challenges like body dysmorphia and mental health struggles, finding strength and emotional insight through her craft.