Debby Ryan is opening up about a health battle fans didn't know she was fighting.
The former Disney Channel star, 33, revealed during a September 15 appearance on Mythical Kitchen's Last Meals that she suffered a "life-altering brain injury" a few years ago - one severe enough to sideline her for half a year.
Ryan shared that she's suffered five concussions throughout her life, with the last one leaving a lasting impact on her health. She described her first four as isolated incidents, but said the fifth involved sustained shaking lasting over a minute.
Ryan says the injury led to six months of neurological rehabilitation, during which she was essentially unable to work. She also tried what she called a "fringe science treatment" - one she says helped her feel like she was "getting back online," though not everything returned to normal.
The Jessie alum now divides her life into two chapters: "pre-incident Debby" and "post-incident Debby." She still deals with "hellish" migraines, and says everyday sensory input - bright lights, loud noise, busy environments - can quickly become overwhelming. Closing her eyes, she explained, is often the only way she can process information without it becoming "too much."
Ryan has largely kept her health struggles private over the years, making this rare and candid look at her recovery all the more striking.
As she continues to navigate life after the injury, fans - including many who've followed her since her Disney Channel days - have flocked to social media with messages of encouragement and prayers for continued healing.
