6 Musicians Discussing Their Mental Health Challenges and Experiences

Mental health conditions encompass a variety of disorders, including clinical depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. The World Health Organization’s 2019 report highlighted that 970 million individuals worldwide were battling mental health issues, with anxiety and depression being the most prevalent problems.

In recent years, musicians and various public figures have played a significant role in raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health challenges by sharing their personal experiences.

Many have collaborated with mental health organizations and therapy services to spread awareness. By recounting their pathways through dark times, they aim to motivate others and instill hope for recovery.

This article delves into the personal experiences of prominent artists dealing with mental health challenges, including postpartum depression, clinical depression, and anxiety.

Disclaimer: The views presented here are solely those of the author.

Musical Influencers like Billie Eilish and Adele Discussing Their Mental Health Journeys

1) Billie Eilish

The Grammy Award-winning artist Billie Eilish recently addressed her mental health in an interview with Rolling Stone, published on April 24, 2024. She expressed that happiness was not a consistent aspect of her life, despite experiencing moments of joy. Eilish shared:

“Throughout my life, I have struggled greatly with depression. I’ve learned that emotions come in waves, sometimes intensifying, sometimes easing.”

She highlighted the support from her parents, brother Finneas O’Connell, and her best friend Zoe Donahoe during her toughest times.

Previously, in a conversation with Gayle King featured in Billboard on January 24, 2020, Eilish reflected on the sadness and solitude accompanying her rapid rise to fame and credited her mother for encouraging her to pursue therapy while moderating her touring schedule.

2) Adele

Adele, 36, has been candid about her challenges with mental health. In a feature for Vanity Fair on October 31, 2016, she shared her experience with postpartum depression following the birth of her son, Angelo, in 2012, and found solace in connecting with other mothers facing similar struggles.

In a Daily Mail article from November 11, 2021, the “Easy On Me” singer discussed grappling with depression after her divorce from Simon Konecki, explaining that she immersed herself in work and travel in an effort to alleviate her anxiety.

While performing in Las Vegas in December 2022, as reported by People Magazine, Adele emphasized the importance of mental health and disclosed that she resumed therapy after a prolonged break.

3) Big Sean

The artist Big Sean opened up to People Magazine in December 2020 about his mental health challenges. He explained how his mind often raced through multiple scenarios, creating overwhelming anxiety, which in turn led to depression:

“I tend to replay scenarios in my mind, and juggling a few thoughts amplifies my anxiety and sadness.”

Additionally, he reflected on the significance of putting himself first:

“Recognizing my own needs has been transformative. It positively affected my appearance, mindset, and overall well-being. It’s a vital step.”

4) Bruce Springsteen

In an interview with Esquire during his Broadway one-man show in 2018, Bruce Springsteen opened up about his difficult upbringing and the role music played in helping him find personal fulfillment:

“During my youth and teenage years, I felt empty, and it wasn’t until I discovered music that I began to realize my potential and influence.”

Springsteen also recounted his first mental breakdown at 32 and shared how he analyzed his emotions to recover, crediting his wife Scialfa and children Evan, Sam, and Jessica as his motivation to improve himself.

5) Chappell Roan

Chappell Roan, 26, disclosed her severe depression diagnosis in a The Guardian interview on September 21, 2024. The “Hot to Go” artist spoke about her mental health struggles during her Midwest Princess Tour and how a psychiatrist ultimately diagnosed her:

“I visited a psychiatrist recently because I felt something was off. It turns out I have severe depression, which surprised me since I don’t feel particularly sad, yet I exhibit all the symptoms.”

Roan, diagnosed with Bipolar II disorder at 22, linked her mental health challenges to the pressures of newfound fame. She also mentioned her connections with fellow musicians Sabrina Carpenter and Lorde, who relate to her experiences.

6) Duff McKagan

Duff McKagan, the bassist for the iconic rock band Guns N’ Roses, released his track “This is the Song”on May 10, 2023, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month.

On his website, McKagan shared that he has dealt with panic disorder since childhood, which worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. He mentioned how music, particularly his acoustic guitar, played a crucial role in his coping process:

“I experienced extreme panic, but thankfully, returning to my guitar has been a lifeline. Strumming chords and creating melodies helps me rise above my struggles.”

A number of other artists, including Becky G, Ariana Grande, 6lack, and Brian Welch, have also shared their own journeys concerning mental health.

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