Aimee Lou Wood Overcomes Body Dysmorphia Through Acting
Aimee Lou Wood is an English actress and writer known for her work on stage and screen. She won the BAFTA Television Award for Best Female Comedy Performance for her role in Sex Education. Over the years, she has appeared in various shows and films including Film Club, Toxic Town, Daddy Issues, The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, Uncle Vanya, and Living.
Dealing with Body Dysmorphia Through Her Role
Aimee Lou Wood shared that she managed to overcome her struggle with body dysmorphia by embracing the desires of her character, Chelsea, rather than her own. She explained that this shift in focus was the aspect of acting she enjoyed most.
“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.”
Though she often needs time to detach from her characters, Aimee values the personal growth gained from the experience.
Mental Health Challenges and Growth
In addition to body dysmorphia, Aimee struggled with bulimia and social anxiety during her teenage years and was diagnosed with ADHD earlier in 2025. While discussing her mental health in a Radio Times interview in September 2025, she revealed how acting changed her mindset about her experiences.
“I don’t need everyone to understand me. The people that get me, get me.”
Selected Filmography and Career Highlights
- Sex Education (BAFTA-winning role)
- Film Club
- Toxic Town
- Daddy Issues
- The Electrical Life of Louis Wain
- Uncle Vanya
- Living
Her journey demonstrates how acting provided a therapeutic outlet and helped her navigate complex personal challenges.