In the midst of all the glitz and glamour of showbiz, it’s a snap to miss the private struggles that numerous celebs go through backstage. We look at 10 celebrities who’ve openly talked about their battles with bipolar disorder, showcasing their strength and sparking inspiration for those navigating their own mental health paths.
Demi Lovato
The singer and actress gained prominence through her role in the Disney Channel movie Camp Rock. Following the success of the sequel and her involvement in the TV series Sonny With A Chance, she made the courageous decision to enter a clinic in 2010 to address her addiction and self-harm issues. During her time there, she received a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, shedding light on a previously unknown aspect of her mental health. In 2012, MTV aired a documentary that chronicled Lovato’s personal battles and her journey with bipolar disorder.
Catherine Zeta-Jones
Mariah Carey
In 2001, the singer who topped the charts received a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. However, she confessed to People magazine that she spent years living in denial and isolation. It wasn’t until she faced a string of professional and romantic challenges that she finally decided to seek treatment. Recognizing the need for change, she surrounded herself with positive influences and returned to her passion for writing songs and creating music.
David Harbour
David Harbour, recognized for his performances in popular projects such as Stranger Things, and Black Widow, disclosed that he received a bipolar disorder diagnosis at the age of 26. He admitted that it wasn’t until he experienced a manic episode that led him to a mental institution that he was properly diagnosed. In a 2018 interview with Self, Harbour shared his ongoing journey with bipolar disorder, mentioning his challenges with consistently staying on medication. He acknowledged his struggle of going on and off medications as he navigated his mental health.
Mel Gibson
Mel Gibson, an Academy Award-winning actor, publicly discussed his diagnosis of bipolar disorder in 2008. Over the years, various stories about Gibson have circulated online, leading some individuals to question whether his behavior stems from mental illness or personal disposition. Recordings of him intoxicated and potentially experiencing manic episodes have gained widespread attention.
Gibson has acknowledged his ongoing battle with bipolar disorder, revealing that he has experienced significant highs but also enduring periods of profound lows. By openly discussing his condition, he has shed light on the complexities of living with bipolar disorder and the challenges it presents.
Carrie Fisher
Carrie Fisher, renowned for her iconic role as Princess Leia in Star Wars, battled addiction alongside a tumultuous childhood. At 24, she learned she had bipolar disorder but rejected the diagnosis until an overdose at 28 compelled her to pursue sobriety. Accepting that nothing else could explain her behavior, Fisher became an acclaimed author, writing books like Postcards From the Edge. The impact of her bipolar disorder on her relationship with her daughter motivated her to prioritize treatment, recognizing the importance of managing her condition for her child’s well-being.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez, a former Disney star known for her role on the TV show Wizards of Waverly Place, disclosed her diagnosis of bipolar disorder in April 2020. In an interview with Elle, she shared that she had recently sought treatment. After experiencing various challenges over the years, Gomez realized and embraced her bipolar diagnosis. She expressed that having more information about her condition was empowering rather than frightening. Learning about her bipolar disorder brought a tremendous sense of relief for Gomez, as she felt a heavy burden lifted off her shoulders. In a subsequent interview with Elle in 2021, she expressed her gratitude for finally understanding the reasons behind many of her experiences.
Bebe Rexha
Bebe Rexha, the American singer-songwriter, is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder. She has openly shared her personal experiences, revealing moments where she would be engrossed in making music all night and others when she couldn’t bring herself to leave the house. During her upbringing, she faced dismissive comments, being told to simply get over her feelings as if it were all in her head. However, she has since decided to no longer hold back and bravely opened up about her struggles with bipolar disorder on her Twitter profile. Rexha boldly declared, “I’m Bipolar, and I’m not ashamed anymore.”
Russell Brand
Russell Brand, a renowned British comedian, actor, and author, has become a prominent advocate for mental health and drug rehabilitation. His personal journey includes the challenges of ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and struggles with various forms of addiction. Through his own experiences and activism, Brand strives to promote awareness, understanding, and compassion towards mental health issues and addiction, working to create a more supportive and empathetic society.