Kerry Washington, known for her roles in Scandal and Little Fires Everywhere, has shared a glimpse into her personal struggles with anxiety during her childhood in her upcoming memoir, Thicker Than Water. In an excerpt published by Oprah Daily, Washington recounts the panic attacks she experienced while witnessing her parents’ heated arguments. As a seven-year-old, she felt the weight of their disappointment and believed that she had to keep them together. Washington vividly describes how the anxiety manifested in her brain as a rhythmic frenzy, comparable to the nauseating spinning rides at a fair. She desperately tried to find ways to escape the torment, singing songs or reciting poems, but the anxiety would take over her body, leaving her feeling powerless. Washington also recalls a heartbreaking moment when her mother confessed her fear that Washington’s father might harm her with a homemade spa machine. These difficult experiences led her to develop a coping mechanism: striving for perfection to maintain harmony in her family. Despite the challenges, Washington maintains a close relationship with her parents. In fact, she recently shared a touching photo of her father on Instagram, expressing her gratitude for his support during the process of writing her memoir. Thicker Than Water is scheduled for release on September 26th. Stay updated on the latest movie news by signing up for Entertainment Weekly’s free newsletter, which includes trailers, celebrity interviews, film reviews, and more.