Funke Akindele Opens Up on Emotional Struggles, Mental Health

The Nollywood star says she sometimes breaks down in tears privately and has learnt to prioritise her mental health, family and personal well-being over work

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has opened up about her private emotional struggles, revealing that she sometimes breaks down in tears behind closed doors despite maintaining a cheerful public image.

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Akindele made the revelation during a recent interview with CNN Africa’s Larry Madowo, where she discussed how she deals with personal challenges, public judgement and the pressures of her career.

The actress explained that life sometimes becomes overwhelming, forcing her to retreat to her room to cry before finding the strength to carry on.

“I cry. I lock myself in the room, cry, break down, hit the bed. But I just pick up myself and come back to life,” she said.

She also spoke about the pressure of worrying over how people might react to her mistakes, explaining that she has learnt to confront challenges rather than allow public opinion to define her.

Akindele said her experiences have taught her the importance of self-love, personal care and maintaining a healthy relationship with her family and loved ones.

“You need to take care of yourself. You need to love yourself. You need to have time for your family, your loved ones, because as the work would go, the family would be there,” she stated.

The filmmaker added that she no longer considers professional success the only priority, noting that putting her mental health first has helped her over the years.

“I’ve noticed over the years that it’s not all about the work. You have to consider your mental health first, and that’s what I’ve done over the years, and it has helped me,” she said.

Beyond her emotional well-being, Akindele disclosed that she has become more deliberate about her appearance and personal style, marking a shift from the period when she devoted almost all her attention to work.

According to her, she previously paid little attention to dressing up for the office, often turning up in cornrows, a face cap and slippers before getting on with her responsibilities.

However, she said she is now making a conscious effort to look after herself and regain a sense of personal enjoyment.

“I’m kind of trying to catch my groove back. Now I’m more intentional about myself, making my hair, looking good,” she said.

Akindele added that she now makes an effort to dress well when going to the office, reflecting her growing commitment to balancing her professional responsibilities with personal fulfilment.

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Her comments have offered a glimpse into the pressures behind her public persona and highlighted her message about the importance of mental health, self-care and family life.