Debby Ryan reveals 'life-altering brain injury' after 5 concussions

Debby Ryan is opening up about a serious health struggle that, according to her, changed her life.

Appearing on Mythical Kitchen’s Last Meals on Tuesday, September 15, the former Disney Channel star revealed that a brain injury she suffered several years ago left her unable to work for months and required extensive neurological rehabilitation.

“I had a pretty crazy life-altering brain injury a few years ago,” Ryan, 33, recalled. “And I was out of commission for like six months, and I went to this neurological rehab for like six months.”

The Suite Life on Deck alum, who also suffers from migraines, said the injury came after what she called “sustained shaking over a minute of time.” Ryan explained that it was her fifth concussion, but unlike previous incidents, this one had lasting effects.

The injury worsened her migraines and changed how she experiences the world. Bright lights, loud sounds and busy environments remain difficult, and she noted that some abilities “just did not come back.”

The actress, who welcomed her first child with Twenty One Pilots drummer Josh Dun last year, credited her support system for helping her through the difficult period.

“I feel really fortunate that I have an amazing team of people around me who sort of reminded me who I am and was and also held a lot of space for that to change, potentially permanently, and love me through that,” she said.