Why Spiderman actor Tom Holland quit social media
“There is an awful stigma around mental help.”
“Asking for help and seeking help isn’t something we should be ashamed of, but it is something much easier said than done.”
Bravely said by Spiderman star, and all-round human being, Tom Holland, as he returned briefly to social media to explain why he is taking a break from social media for his mental health.
He also used his platform to promote teenage mental health charity stem4 and The Brothers Trust, which aims to raise money for great causes.
In a video watched more than 25 million times which he shared with his 68 million Instagram followers, he said: “I have taken a break from social media for my mental health, because I find Instagram and Twitter to be overstimulating, to be overwhelming.
“I get caught up and I spiral when I read things about me online, and ultimately, it’s very detrimental to my mental state, so I decided to take a step back and delete the app[s].
“On this very, very brief return to Instagram, I thought it would be very important and a good idea to shed some light on a charity that we sponsor which is Stem4.”
“Stem4 is a wonderfully innovative education program. Its pioneering apps, clinically advised website and its mental health conferences helped contribute towards helping young kids who were suffering,” he added. “Stem4 is one of the many charities @thebrotherstrust is extremely proud to support – and I’d like to take a moment to shine a light on their fantastic work.”
“The Brothers Trust is a fundraising vehicle to help raise money so these charities can continue to do the fantastic work that they’re doing. So if you feel so inclined to help us help them and in turn help others, go to our website, buy yourself a T-shirt, all of the money goes to all of the charities that we support.”
Tom signed off his post saying, “Love to you all, and let’s get talking about mental health ❤️”.
His announcement was recently followed by Wolf on Wall Street star Jonah Hill, who also said goodbye to social media.
The comic actor is helming a documentary called Stutz, which explores his relationship with his therapist and explores mental health issues.
Jonah wrote: “Through this journey of self-discovery within the film, I have come to the understanding that I have spent nearly 20 years experiencing anxiety attacks, which are exacerbated by media appearances and public facing events.
“I am so grateful that the film will make its world premiere at a prestigious film festival this fall, and I can’t wait to share it with audiences around the world in the hope that it will help those struggling. However, you won’t see me out there promoting this film, or any of my upcoming films, while I take this important step to protect myself.
“If I made myself sicker by going out there and promoting it, I wouldn’t be acting true to myself or to the film.”
The actor hopes his speaking out with help “make it more normal for people to talk and act on this stuff”.
