Patrick J. Adams, the actor beloved for his portrayal of Mike Ross on the hit series Suits, has opened up about a deeply personal struggle: managing depression during the show's seventh season. In a candid conversation with Jesse Tyler Ferguson on the podcast Dinner’s on Me, Adams reflected on his mental health journey and how it shaped his life, relationships, and career. His story is a powerful reminder of the challenges many face while managing mental health issues, particularly in demanding work environments.
A Turning Point: Recognizing the Struggle
During the seventh season of Suits, Adams faced a difficult reality. “I wasn’t taking good care of my mental health, and I was drinking too much,” he admitted. The pressures of his career, coupled with personal struggles, left him feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. His life felt unexamined, and he found himself stuck in unhealthy coping mechanisms, including excessive drinking and reckless spending.
Adams revealed that while he had some awareness of what needed to change, he lacked the tools and support to address his depression effectively. Therapy was only a half-hearted attempt at the time, leaving him feeling isolated and unequipped to deal with the mounting challenges.
The Impact on Relationships and Fatherhood
The emotional toll of depression extended beyond his personal struggles; it began to affect his family life. Adams admitted to feeling like a “not present father,” which became a wake-up call. Married to Pretty Little Liars star Troian Bellisario and father to two daughters, Aurora and Elliot, Adams realised that his habits and emotional detachment were jeopardising his ability to be the father and husband he aspired to be.
“That, for me, was a breaking point,” he shared. “I think I should stop drinking because I don’t want to be that dad.” This realisation marked the beginning of his commitment to sobriety and a healthier lifestyle.
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Choosing Sobriety as a Path to Healing
Adams credited quitting alcohol as the most transformative decision of his life. “There was really no way I was gonna take my mental health seriously…if alcohol was still in the picture,” he explained. The decision to stop drinking allowed him to focus on improving his mental and physical health, repairing relationships, and becoming a more present father.
When tempted to drift back into old habits, Adams draws strength from the life he’s building: “I have this new beautiful existence with relationships and people who rely on me in ways they couldn’t before.”
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Lessons in Managing Depression at Work
Adams’ story resonates with countless individuals who struggle to balance mental health challenges while meeting professional responsibilities. Depression can make daily tasks feel insurmountable, yet finding effective ways to cope is crucial. Here are some strategies inspired by Adams’ journey and expert recommendations for managing depression in the workplace:
Acknowledge Your Feelings
Understanding the root cause of your depression—whether it's work-related stress, personal challenges, or a clinical condition—is the first step. Recognising and naming your struggles can help you address them more effectively.
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Create a Supportive Environment
Your workspace can influence your mood and productivity. Keeping it clean, organised, and personalised with items that bring joy, such as photos or plants, can foster a sense of calm and focus.
Practice Self-Care During Downtime
Use breaks to recharge. A short walk, a cup of tea, or mindfulness exercises can help alleviate negative thoughts and refresh your mind.
Set Boundaries Between Work and Home
Compartmentalising work and personal life can prevent the two from intensifying each other. Focus on work during office hours and address personal matters separately to maintain emotional balance.
Tackle Tasks in Manageable Steps
Breaking projects into smaller, achievable goals can reduce feelings of overwhelm. Celebrate small victories to build momentum and confidence.
Explore Work Arrangements
Evaluate whether working remotely or in-office better supports your mental health, and discuss flexible options with your employer.
Seek Professional Help
Depression often requires more than self-help strategies. A therapist or counsellor can provide the tools and support needed to navigate complex emotions.
Bottomline
Adams’ openness about his struggles with depression serves as a testament to the importance of acknowledging mental health issues and seeking help. His decision to prioritise his well-being not only improved his personal life but also enhanced his ability to engage meaningfully with his family and career.
For anyone grappling with depression, Adams’ journey is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible. By taking proactive steps—whether through therapy, lifestyle changes, or support from loved ones—you can pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling life.