Actress Xyriel Manabat revealed that she once went through a near-death experience linked to her mental health, opening up about one of the most difficult chapters of her life.
In an interview during the red-carpet premiere of ‘Near Death’ held on October 19 at SM North The Block, the ‘Dirty Linen’ actress shared that she has faced both physical and emotional struggles that deeply affected her.
“Ako po, nagkaroon ako ng near-death experience, sa hospital at saka sa buhay,” Xyriel said. “So sa hospital, naranasan ko yung tinatawag na yung mga nurse kasi unresponsive na ako. Tapos sa buhay naman, nakaranas na ako ng parang ‘Julia moment’. Na parang at a very young age, maaga kong na-feel na parang, ‘Ayoko na,’ parang tapos na ako, ganyan. So yes, marami na po akong mga near-death experience sa medical and mental na aspeto.”
Xyriel chose not to go into detail about the incident but stressed that mental health is something that should never be taken lightly.
When asked how she overcame that period, she replied: “It’s a long process po. It’s not linear, and at the same time, you really have to acknowledge it, and you really have to ask for help. Huwag mong ikakahiya na nanghingi ka ng tulong. Kasi that’s the bravest thing you can give for yourself. To ask for help.”
She also emphasized the importance of empathy and kindness, saying that we never truly know what others may be going through.
“Gaya po nung sabi ni Ms. Lot and ni Ate Charlie, hindi naman kada makakasalamuha natin, malalaman natin kung ano yung pinagdadaanan. Hindi naman porke’t may nagawang mali sa atin that day, kukutyain na natin, pagsasalitaan na natin ng masama, sisirain na natin yung araw nila dahil lang may inconvenience. So it’s free to be kind, it’s free to be nice.”
In ‘Near Death’, Xyriel plays Mia, the sister of Julia (played by Charlie Dizon), a woman battling mental health challenges and supernatural visions. The film, directed and co-produced by Richard Somes, also stars Lotlot de Leon, RK Bagatsing, and Soliman Cruz, and is part of the Sine Sindak Film Festival under SM Cinemas.
‘Near Death’ is produced by Diamond Productions, CMB Films, and RVS Studios, and opens in theaters on October 29, 2025.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, you can reach out for help through the National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline:
1553 (Luzon-wide landline)
(02) 7-989-8727 (landline)
0966-351-4518 (mobile)
You are not alone. Help is available.
