‘The Last of Us’ star Bella Ramsey Says Being Tired Amplified Her Autistic Traits While Shooting: “I Was Going To Go Insane”

Bella Ramsey’s Autism Journey

Bella Ramsey, known for her role as Ellie in the superhit series ‘The Last of Us,’ first began to wonder about autism while filming the show’s first season. A crew member with an autistic daughter noticed similarities and suggested Bella look into it. After a formal assessment, Bella was diagnosed with autism. She described this moment as ‘freeing,’ saying it allowed her to be kinder to herself about daily tasks that others find easy.

Bella explained that she had always felt different. She often found comfort in adult conversations rather than with kids her own age. On set, she noticed sensory issues, like being uncomfortable with heavy costumes and being overly aware of other people’s body language. The structure of filming and knowing where to stand, what to wear, and what to do helped her feel more at ease.

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The Impact of Tiredness on Autism

Bella shared that tiredness made her autistic traits stronger. Long, exhausting days on set led to sensory overload and emotional stress. She said, “I was going to go insane.” Simple things became harder, and she felt more sensitive to sounds, lights, and even the way clothes felt on her skin. This experience is common for many autistic people, who often find it harder to cope when they are tired or stressed.

What Is Autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a condition that affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world. Dr Kranthi Mohan, Consultant Neurologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital Kengeri, Bengaluru, explains that autism is usually found early in childhood. Signs often start to show by the time a child is two or three years old. He says that autism mostly happens because of genes, but things in the environment, like if the mother was exposed to certain toxins or infections during pregnancy, can also play a part.

People with autism may have:

• Difficulty with social interactions
• Sensory sensitivities (to noise, light, touch, etc.)
• Strong focus on specific interests
• Need for routines and structure

Autism is different for everyone. Some people have mild symptoms, while others need more support. Many autistic people, like Bella, are creative and talented, but may find certain everyday situations challenging.

Embracing the Diagnosis

For Bella, getting an autism diagnosis was a relief. She said it helped her accept herself and understand why she sometimes struggled with things others found easy. Bella also believes her autism helps her acting. She pays close attention to how people behave and uses this skill to bring her characters to life. 

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Conclusion

Bella’s story is important because it shows that being different is okay. She encourages others to talk openly about autism and support people who may be struggling. Her message is clear: with understanding and acceptance, everyone can find their place. Even if it is on set, at school, or anywhere in life. Bella Ramsey’s journey reminds us that tiredness and stress can make life harder for autistic people, but with support and self-acceptance, they can shine in their own way.