In a revealing podcast interview, Delta Burke, the famed "Designing Women" actress, discussed her tumultuous past involving harsh working conditions, public scrutiny, and substance abuse.

Delta Burke shared her grueling experiences during the 1980s and 1990s on "Glamorous Trash," reflecting on the mental and physical challenges she faced, Daily Mail reported.

Delta Burke, now 67, famously portrayed a former beauty queen on the CBS sitcom "Designing Women." The show began in 1986 and initially brought her significant fame and satisfaction. However, the environment on set soon took a turn for the worse.

In a 1990 interview with Barbara Walters, Burke expressed her discontent with the show's atmosphere, which she described as increasingly unbearable. This dissatisfaction culminated in her departure from the series in 1991, marking a pivotal moment in her career and personal life.

From Stardom to Struggle: Delta Burke's Initial Years

Burke's issues escalated after she started dating Gerald McRaney in 1989, whom she later married.

Her relationship seemed to exacerbate the tensions on set, with co-stars and producers suggesting McRaney negatively influenced her. Despite these accusations, Burke found solace and security in her marriage, which lasted over three decades.

During the podcast Glamorous Trash, hosted by Chelsea Devantez, Burke detailed how trapped she felt in her situation. She wanted to leave the show but was not permitted to, which led to a profound sense of desperation and loneliness. This period was, as Burke described it, both "ugly and very sad."

Turning to drugs was a method Burke used to cope with the immense pressure and scrutiny, particularly regarding her weight.

She initially used prescription pills known as Black Beauties before moving on to crystal meth. These substances, she explained, were like medicine to her at the time, helping her manage the stress and negativity she faced daily.

The Downward Spiral and Subsequent Recovery

The actress recalled the harsh comments about her body, even though she looked great. "They were still saying, 'Your butt's too big. Your legs are too big,'" Burke recounted on the podcast. Such comments contributed to her worsening mental state and increasing reliance on drugs.

Despite these challenges, Burke continued to work in Hollywood, starring in other shows and movies after her time on "Designing Women." She and McRaney now live a relatively low-profile life in Los Angeles, focusing on their happiness and well-being away from the public eye.

Burke's experiences have given her a unique perspective on the dangers of Hollywood, particularly how it can profoundly impact one's mental health. She warns others in the industry about the potential mental health pitfalls of fame and public scrutiny.

Lessons to Learn from This Tragedy

1. Understanding Limits: It's important to recognize when a work environment is detrimental to mental health and take steps to address it, whether seeking professional help or considering a career change.

2. Seek Support: Always look for supportive relationships inside and outside of work. These can provide a safe space and help mitigate feelings of isolation.

3. Be Open About Struggles: Sharing one's experiences can be therapeutic and help others in similar situations. However, it's important to remember that adverse events can still occur despite precautions, and it's never the victim's fault.

Why This Story Matters

Delta Burke's open discussion about her struggles offers significant insight into the challenges faced by public figures and highlights the importance of mental health awareness in high-pressure environments. Her story serves as a reminder of the human aspect behind celebrity facades and the real impact of fame on personal well-being.

In conclusion, Delta Burke's candid revelations about her past serve to educate others about life's complexities in the spotlight and the importance of mental health support.

Her journey from a beloved television star to a survivor of personal and professional turmoil offers powerful lessons on resilience and recovery.