Kanye West
In late 2016, the rapper was admitted to Los Angeles’s Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and placed under observation after suffering what was dubbed both a “serious psychiatric problem” as well as “exhaustion and sleep deprivation.” At the time, an unnamed source told People magazine that West generally has “big ups and downs, but this bout seems to be much more serious. In the hospital, he has been very paranoid and is under constant watch for his safety.” In the weeks following, fans would learn that the anniversary of his mother’s death married with the demands of his tour triggered the break.
Michelle Williams
“I’ve dealt with depression,” she once told ABC News. “I had to choose to get out of bed and do whatever I needed to do to be happy.” The Destiny’s Child alum went on to say that, “We’re taught, ‘Just go to church and pray about it. The Lord is going to heal you.’ Well, in the meantime, I believe God-gifted people, physicians, doctors, therapists — that’s your healing. Take advantage of it,” she said. “Go see a professional so that they can assess you. It’s OK if you’re going through something. Depression is not OK, but it is OK to go get help.”
If it’s one thing we can take away from each star’s story, it’s that internalizing feelings of anger, sadness, restlessness, guilt, etc. is not a resolution but further feeding the issue. With help, you can come out of a dark place.
If you believe that you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, know that there is no shame in asking for help. Contact your primary health physician or locate your community mental health center to discuss treatment options. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 1-800-273-TALK for assistance at any time.