Candace Cameron Bure: How The Sunny Star Survived Depression

THAT million-watt smile that led Candace Cameron Bure from charming the world at age 11 as sassy D.J. Tanner on “Full House” to her feel-good holiday Hallmark and Great American Family films hides a shocking secret — she’s been crushed by devastating depression! Talking about her battle with the blues, 48-year-old Candace confides, “It’s been surprising to talk about my experiences, but also liberating. Hearing feedback from people thanking me for sharing encourages me most.” Here are her tips on being happy and confident.

RECHARGE YOURSELF

During the holidays, Candace focuses on family and friends, explaining, “It allows me to breathe and not worry about everything else going on in the world and at work. It helps clear my mind and recharge myself.”

FACE YOUR FEARS

Terrified to take the dance floor on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2014, Candace points out, “I faced my fear! Another thing I did that was super brave was singing. I don’t have a very pretty voice! I asked a voice coach if she thought anyone could sing and she said absolutely, so I took months of voice lessons. I definitely improved, and now I’m more confident when I sing. I’m proud of that.”

MOVE YOUR BODY

“Exercise is super important to me. Releasing toxins and endorphins relaxes me and makes me feel better. Fitness fuels a lot of things I’m able to do and keeps my mind and body healthy. Getting out in nature and getting oxygen to your brain changes the dynamics of your mental state.”

FIND YOUR PATH

“I think the need to grow and learn every day and every year of my life is a recent revelation, and I want to discover my own road less traveled. As you get older, you figure out what’s most important, so I guess I’m continuing to discover what those things are and prioritize them. I absolutely love what I do. My work and my family are the two core things that bring me the most happiness. My son got married this year, so I cannot wait to be a grandmother someday. I’m just looking forward to more weddings and grandbabies.”

CALM WITH PRAYER

“As soon as my alarm goes off, I do my Bible studies. It’s the only book I have on my nightstand, and I carry it with me everywhere I go because it eases all my stress.”