Debby Ryan Reveals Traumatic Brain Injury, Six-Month Absence from Entertainment Industry

Former Disney star Debby Ryan has revealed that she once suffered a life-changing traumatic brain injury. In an interview on the YouTube show Last Meals, hosted by Josh Scherer, Ryan described herself as a “migraine warrior” and recounted her harrowing experience.

Ryan said she has had five concussions. Four were caused by isolated incidents, while the fifth occurred due to continuous shaking lasting more than a minute. “I had a pretty crazy, life-changing brain injury a few years ago. I couldn't work for about six months, and I underwent neurological rehabilitation for six months,” she said.

However, those recovery efforts did not pay off. Instead, Ryan's condition worsened. She then underwent what she called “fringe science treatment” to restore her brain function. Although it helped somewhat, she admitted there are some things that “can't go back” to the way they were. To this day, Ryan still suffers from migraines, which she describes as “hell,” and has to close her eyes to think clearly.

In the interview, Ryan also expressed gratitude for the support of family and friends, including her husband, Josh Dun, and their daughter, Felix. “I feel very lucky to have extraordinary people around me who remind me who I am and support me through changes that may be permanent,” she said.

“I feel so lucky to have an incredible team around me who remind me who I am and who I used to be, and also make room for that change, which may be permanent, and love me through all of it.”

— Debby Ryan

Ryan first became known through the Disney Channel series The Suite Life on Deck, then starred in Jessie (2011–2015). She also led the Netflix comedy Insatiable (2018). After a long absence from the screen, this year she appears in the film The Sun Never Sets alongside Dakota Fanning.

Ryan's story highlights an issue rarely discussed in the entertainment industry: the risk of head injuries and their impact on mental health and careers. In Indonesia, awareness of traumatic brain injury remains low, especially among artists and athletes. According to data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health, head injuries are a leading cause of death and disability among people of productive age. However, comprehensive neurological rehabilitation services remain limited in several regions.

Ryan's experience also underscores the importance of social support in the recovery process. Research shows that patients with strong support systems tend to have better recovery outcomes. Unfortunately, stigma against mental and neurological disorders often makes sufferers reluctant to seek help.

Going forward, Ryan's story could spark discussion about the need for better health protections for entertainment and sports professionals, including insurance that covers long-term care. Is Indonesia's entertainment industry ready to give serious attention to similar risks?