Bella Hadid Opens Up About Ongoing Lyme Disease Battle and Medical Anxiety

Supermodel Bella Hadid has shared a candid update on her life with chronic illness. The 28-year-old posted to her Instagram Story about the daily reality of Lyme disease. She highlighted the significant medical anxiety that accompanies her condition.

This is not the first time Hadid has been public with her health struggles. Her recent posts offer a glimpse into the fluctuating nature of her symptoms.

Hadid’s Personal Post Details Daily Health Struggles

Hadid shared two posts that resonated deeply with her experience. The first was a humorous meme about persistent chronic illness symptoms. The second was a more serious carousel post from an influencer.

This second post detailed the “duality” of living with a chronic condition. Hadid added a personal note expressing her relief at seeing her own struggles reflected. “The medical anxiety is soooooo real,” she wrote, according to People.

Her advocacy has brought significant attention to the disease. She has documented her journey publicly for years.

A Public Journey with Treatment and Triumph

Hadid’s health updates often show stark contrasts. In September, she posted photos from a hospital bed during treatment. The images showed multiple IV bags and medical monitoring equipment.

Just days later, she shared a picture from a gym treadmill. She celebrated it as her “first day in the gym in a long time.” This back-and-forth is common for those managing long-term health issues.

Despite these challenges, her professional commitments have remained strong. She returned to the runway for Saint Laurent shortly after her hospital stay. She also participated in the high-profile Victoria’s Secret 2025 fashion show.

Lyme Disease Diagnosis and Family History

The Hadid family’s experience with Lyme disease is well-documented. Bella was first diagnosed in 2012 at just 16 years old. Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, and brother, Anwar, also received diagnoses around the same time.

Yolanda has been a vocal advocate, detailing her own severe battle with the illness. The family’s openness has helped raise global awareness. Their story underscores the disease’s potential severity and impact.

This shared family experience has created a strong support system. They often speak about navigating the complex medical landscape together.

Bella Hadid’s continued transparency about her Lyme disease journey provides a powerful voice for millions with invisible illnesses. Her ability to balance a top-tier career with serious health management inspires many. The conversation around chronic illness and medical anxiety is richer because of her honesty.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread through tick bites. It can cause a wide range of symptoms affecting joints, the heart, and the nervous system. Early treatment is crucial for recovery.

When was Bella Hadid diagnosed?

Bella Hadid was diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2012. She was 16 years old at the time. Her mother and brother were also diagnosed around the same period.

How has Lyme disease affected her career?

She has taken breaks from modeling for intensive treatment. Despite this, she has maintained a strong presence on major runways. Her work includes recent shows for Saint Laurent and Victoria’s Secret.

What did her recent posts say?

She shared posts about the daily reality of chronic illness. She specifically highlighted dealing with significant medical anxiety. Hadid thanked another creator for accurately portraying her experience.

Why is her advocacy important?

Her platform brings mainstream attention to a often-misunderstood illness. It helps reduce stigma for those with invisible chronic conditions. This encourages more open discussion about complex health issues.