Aimee Lou Wood Discusses Overcoming Body Dysmorphia Through Acting
Aimee Lou Wood, an English actress and writer, began her career on stage and won the BAFTA Television Award for Best Female Comedy Performance for Sex Education. She has appeared in numerous shows and films, including Film Club, Toxic Town, Daddy Issues, The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, Uncle Vanya, and Living.
Overcoming Body Dysmorphia via Her Role in White Lotus
Wood revealed that her role as Chelsea in White Lotus helped her overcome body dysmorphia. She explained that by focusing on what her character wanted rather than her own insecurities, she found a way to cope.
"I shook myself out of it by thinking, 'It’s not about whether Aimee wants to show her body or not – Chelsea does.' Acting has always been a safe place for me to work out my feelings. I think for that reason a role will hit me in the heart, in the gut."
Mental Health Challenges and Identity
Besides her struggle with body dysmorphia, Wood faced bulimia and social anxiety during her teenage years. In early 2025, she was diagnosed with ADHD. Speaking to Radio Times in September 2025, she shared how acting transformed her perspective on mental health.
"I don’t need everyone to understand me. The people that get me, get me."
Her Relationship with Acting
Aimee noted that while she often needs time to detach from a character after filming, she values what she gains from these experiences, which have helped her personally and creatively.
Selected Filmography
- Sex Education
- Film Club
- Toxic Town
- Daddy Issues
- The Electrical Life of Louis Wain
- Uncle Vanya
- Living
Summary: Aimee Lou Wood credits her acting, especially her role in White Lotus, with helping her overcome body dysmorphia and reshape her mental health outlook.