Fans Shocked as Olivia Munn Reveals Mental Breakdown Caused by Paparazzi

Actress Olivia Munn recently revealed that she developed trichotillomania—a hair-pulling disorder—after experiencing paparazzi scrutiny during her onscreen romance with Chris Pine in 2009–2010. The condition began soon after media attention intensified around their relationship.

Munn, 44, shared the details in a June 30 appearance on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast. The turning point came when paparazzi caught her outside Pine’s apartment. She said she read harsh comments online after the photos went public. That stress triggered her to start pulling out her eyelashes.

She described the cycle of behavior: “I’ll feel like, ‘Oh, this eyelash feels like it’s gonna come out,’ even though it’s not,” she said. “And then when you pull it, there’s a quick second of pain, and then there’s a satisfaction, and then immediate regret.”

Trichotillomania is a body-focused repetitive behavior included in the same category as OCD. Individuals may pull hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes—often in response to stress or anxiety. The Mayo Clinic notes that this condition affects about 1–2% of people.

Munn’s candid disclosure will likely resonate with others who have hidden such struggles. Her willingness to speak openly reduces stigma and highlights how public pressure can trigger deep anxiety—even for those who appear confident in the spotlight.

She said the effect of fame was surprising. “It was the first time I was in the tabloids,” she recalled. “I did the horrible thing, which was to read the comments … That began my trichotillomania.”

Munn also reflected on her past mental health journey. She previously experienced panic attacks and struggled with anxiety and OCD during her life and career, especially after negative public encounters. “I had it growing up,” she told Self in 2014.

On Armchair Expert, she said the disorder has come and gone through the years, especially during stressful times. She emphasized the need for empathy and awareness. Her story encourages others to recognize how bullying, public scrutiny, or trauma can affect mental health deeply.

Experts say that treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and habit reversal training (HRT) can help individuals with trichotillomania manage urges and reduce symptoms. Treatment may also include stress management and support groups.

Munn recently married comedian John Mulaney, and they share two young children. She said she continues to manage her mental health while balancing family life and her acting career.

By speaking openly about her struggle with trichotillomania, Olivia Munn brings visibility to a little-known condition and underscores how public attention can trigger mental health issues. Her message is clear: even small, repeated actions like hair pulling deserve respect and support—not judgment.