Aimee Lou Wood on Overcoming Body Dysmorphia Through Acting
Aimee Lou Wood is an English actress and writer known for her versatile performances. She began her career on stage and earned the BAFTA Television Award for Best Female Comedy Performance for her role in Sex Education. Over the years, she appeared in various productions including Film Club, Toxic Town, Daddy Issues, The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, Uncle Vanya, and Living.
How Playing Chelsea Helped Her
Aimee revealed that playing her character Chelsea in White Lotus helped her manage her struggle with body dysmorphia. She explained that by focusing on what Chelsea wanted rather than what she herself wished, she found relief and enjoyment in the acting process.
"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."
Her Experience with Mental Health
As a teenager, Aimee faced bulimia and social anxiety and was later diagnosed with ADHD in early 2025. Discussing her mental health journey during a September 2025 interview with Radio Times, she said acting changed her perspective on understanding herself and others.
"I don’t need everyone to understand me. The people that get me, get me."
Reflection on Acting and Self-Discovery
Aimee admitted it sometimes takes time to step out of a character, but she values the personal growth gained through the process. Acting remains a powerful outlet to confront and process her feelings.
Summary: Aimee Lou Wood credits her role in White Lotus for helping her overcome body dysmorphia and shaping her mental health journey by allowing her to explore emotions through acting.