In a revealing cover story with Rolling Stone, Lady Gaga opened up about her mental health journey while filming the acclaimed film A Star Is Born. The 39-year-old singer and actress shared that she was on lithium, a medication commonly used as a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder, during the production in 2017. This period marked a challenging time in her life, culminating in a psychotic break.
Reflecting on her struggles, Gaga recounted a pivotal moment when her sister expressed concern, saying, “I don’t see my sister anymore.” This prompted her to cancel the remainder of her Joanne World Tour in February 2018 to prioritize her health. The cancellation came as Gaga battled chronic pain disorder fibromyalgia and experienced debilitating mental health issues.
Gaga admitted that her mental health struggles left her feeling hopeless, stating, “There was a time where I didn’t think I could get better.” However, with time, she has found a sense of gratitude, explaining, “I feel really lucky to be alive.” This sentiment resonated during her acceptance speech at the SAG-AFTRA Patron of the Artists Award, where she discussed the toll of her relentless work ethic and the importance of mental health support.
Previously, in her documentary Gaga: Five Foot Two, she was candid about her health battles, showing viewers the vulnerability she often hides from the public eye. “Do I look pathetic?” she asked in a heartfelt moment, highlighting the stigma and embarrassment surrounding mental health struggles.
Gaga emphasized the urgency of recognizing mental health needs sooner, wishing she had received help earlier in her journey. She acknowledged the severe repercussions of neglecting these issues, including panic attacks and suicidal ideation. By sharing her story, Gaga hopes to inspire others to seek the support they need before reaching a breaking point.
Through her openness, Lady Gaga not only raises awareness about mental health challenges but also fosters a sense of hope for those facing similar battles, illustrating that recovery is possible and that seeking help is a sign of strength.