Harrison Ford Reveals Past Struggles with Clinical Depression

The actor opened up about his mental health challenges during his college years.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:09pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked, glittering film reel in dramatic studio lighting, conveying the emotional texture of a personal journey through mental health struggles.A glittering, textured close-up of a film reel symbolizes the transformative power of storytelling in overcoming personal challenges.Ripon Today

In a new interview, renowned actor Harrison Ford candidly discussed his experience with clinical depression while attending Ripon College in Wisconsin in the early 1960s. Ford described a period of social isolation and psychological distress that led him to discover his passion for acting, which ultimately changed the course of his life.

Why it matters

Ford's openness about his mental health struggles during a formative period of his life helps destigmatize discussions around depression, especially among young adults. His story also highlights how finding a creative outlet can be transformative for those dealing with mental health challenges.

The details

Ford revealed that during his college years, he would rarely leave his single dorm room, ordering pizza and sleeping for most of the day. He said he was 'more than depressed' and 'socially ill, psychologically not well.' It was only when he accidentally enrolled in a drama class that he found a sense of community and discovered his talent for acting, which set him on the path to his legendary career.

  • Ford attended Ripon College in Wisconsin in the early 1960s.

The players

Harrison Ford

A renowned American actor best known for his roles in the Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises.

George Lucas

The creator of the Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises, who later cast Ford in the iconic role of Han Solo.

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What they’re saying

“I had a single room, and I had classes to go to, but I rarely ventured out. I would get up out of my single bed, go to a phone, order a pizza, go back and lie down in bed until the pizza came. I would eat the pizza, throw the wrappers in the corner, go back to sleep.”

— Harrison Ford

“I was more than depressed. I think I was ill. I was socially ill, psychologically not well.”

— Harrison Ford

“I think I simply found my place amongst storytellers. It really changed my world, changed my life.”

— Harrison Ford

The takeaway

Harrison Ford's candid discussion of his past struggles with clinical depression during his college years serves as an important reminder that even the most successful and celebrated individuals can face mental health challenges. His story underscores the transformative power of finding a creative outlet and community, which ultimately helped him overcome his difficulties and embark on an iconic acting career.