Andrew Garfield Reflects on External Validation and Mental Health

Andrew Garfield has opened up about his struggles with mental health and the impact of external validation on his life and career, particularly after the death of his mother in 2019. The actor, known for roles in films like 'The Social Network' and 'Hacksaw Ridge', revealed that he felt a deep dependency on validation from awards, stating, 'When I’m getting nominated for an award, I feel great. When I lose that award, I feel like sh*t.' This realization prompted him to seek therapy and reassess his sense of self-worth, leading him to understand that his value shouldn't hinge on others' opinions. Garfield also discussed how familial pressures and his Jewish heritage influenced his feelings of worthiness. He emphasized the importance of emotional openness and support among men, stating, 'We’re allowed to feel all of this (grief)'. His recent film, 'We Live In Time', marks his return to acting after a two-year hiatus.