Elizabeth Banks: From "Hunger Games" to Health Advocacy, Embracing a New Chapter
Elizabeth Banks, the celebrated actress and director known for her roles in blockbuster franchises like "The Hunger Games" and the beloved "Pitch Perfect," recently experienced a significant health scare that prompted a profound reassessment of her well-being. In a candid interview, Banks revealed that a bout with shingles, a painful and debilitating viral infection, served as a potent "wake-up call," leading her to prioritize her health in new and meaningful ways.
Banks, who turned 50 last year, admitted that missing work due to shingles was a jarring experience, marking the first time in her career she had to step back due to illness. Shingles, caused by the varicella zoster virus – the same virus that causes chickenpox – is characterized by a painful, itchy rash, and can lead to other complications. For Banks, the experience was a stark reminder of her own vulnerability and the importance of preventative healthcare.
"That was a huge wake-up call, because I take a lot of pride in staying healthy while I’m working," Banks explained. This experience motivated her to get the shingles vaccine, which is recommended for adults aged 50 and older. However, her commitment to health didn’t stop there. Inspired by her experience with shingles, Banks has proactively updated her other vaccinations, including the pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine.
Pneumococcal pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can be particularly dangerous for older adults. Recent recommendations have lowered the age for vaccination to 50, recognizing the increased risk faced by individuals in this age group. Banks is now partnering with Pfizer to raise awareness about the heightened risk of pneumococcal pneumonia in adults over 50, emphasizing that they are more than six times as likely to contract the illness compared to those aged 18 to 49. This collaboration reflects her dedication to not only prioritizing her own health, but also empowering others to take proactive steps to protect themselves.
Beyond preventative vaccinations, Banks is also navigating the complexities of perimenopause, the transitional period leading up to menopause. This stage, characterized by hormonal fluctuations, can bring about a range of physical and emotional symptoms. Banks described experiencing common perimenopausal symptoms such as brain fog, heightened emotions, and even bouts of rage. These experiences, while unsettling, ultimately motivated her to seek support from her healthcare provider and embrace a more holistic approach to wellness.
"I thought, ‘Who is this person inside of me? This isn’t really me,’ and then it became obvious what was happening," she shared, emphasizing the universality of the perimenopausal experience. Banks acknowledged that she didn’t have particularly unique symptoms, but was grateful to have access to the information and support needed to navigate this phase of life.
In response to her perimenopausal symptoms, Banks has made significant lifestyle changes. She’s prioritizing exercise, making healthier dietary choices, and ensuring she gets adequate sleep by going to bed earlier. She’s also incorporating wellness practices, such as visits to spas, into her routine. These changes reflect a conscious effort to prioritize her physical and mental well-being, recognizing that longevity is not just about living longer, but about living healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Banks’ perspective on aging has also shifted. She found turning 50 to be surprisingly easier than turning 40, attributing this to a sense of self-assuredness and empowerment that comes with experience. "I felt like I had spent my time learning in my 20s and 30s, and I really feel like I’m in my earning period right now, like where you don’t have that imposter syndrome anymore, where you are sort of in your power in a way that you’ve never felt before," she explained. She also noted a release from the pressures of FOMO and the constant pursuit of youthfulness, allowing her to embrace the present moment and focus on what truly matters.
Alongside her personal health journey, Banks also cherishes the simple joys of everyday life. She makes time for daily dog walks with her children and their beloved schnauzer-poodle-terrier mix, Saucer. These walks provide a valuable opportunity to connect with her teenage sons and hear about their day. The family also enjoys watching television shows together, including "Severance" on Apple TV+ and plans to watch "The Residence" on Netflix.
Banks also openly discusses her past struggles with infertility, underscoring the importance of open conversations about reproductive health. "Anybody who opens that conversation with me, I’m always happy to have it," she shared, encouraging others to seek information and support when needed. Her willingness to share her personal experiences demonstrates a commitment to creating a more open and supportive environment for women facing similar challenges.
In conclusion, Elizabeth Banks’ recent health experiences have served as a catalyst for profound self-reflection and a renewed commitment to her well-being. From prioritizing vaccinations and addressing perimenopausal symptoms to embracing a healthier lifestyle and cherishing time with her family, Banks is embracing a new chapter with grace and determination. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to take proactive steps to protect their health and well-being, and to approach aging with a sense of empowerment and self-acceptance. Her journey is a testament to the importance of prioritizing health at all ages and recognizing that self-care is not selfish, but essential for living a long, healthy, and fulfilling life.
