Mariah Carey has finally decided to come forward about the mental illness she's been suffering from for years.
The legendary singer revealed that she was diagnosed with bipolar II disorder in 2001 and has been in "constant fear" of being exposed, but is now hopeful that the stigma can finally be lifted.
After years of suffering in silence, @MariahCarey is opening up about her battle with bipolar II disorder — and why she finally got help. https://t.co/nz2asNS0Ar pic.twitter.com/npCfgMoZXV
— People (@people) April 11, 2018
In a new People Magazine cover story, Carey talks about having been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and where she is today. Carey, who was first diagnosed in 2001 when she was hospitalized following a breakdown, said she recently sought treatment after years of upheaval in her personal and professional life.
"Until recently I lived in denial and isolation and in constant fear someone would expose me," she said. "It was too heavy a burden to carry and I simply couldn't do that anymore. I sought and received treatment, I put positive people around me and I got back to doing what I love -- writing songs and making music."
She continued...
"I'm hopeful we can get to a place where the stigma is lifted from people going through anything alone," Carey said. "It can be incredibly isolating. It does not have to define you and I refuse to allow it to define me or control me."
I'm grateful to be sharing this part of my journey with you. @MrJessCagle @people https://t.co/jy1fOk4mMK pic.twitter.com/9E2D2OTARo
— Mariah Carey (@MariahCarey) April 11, 2018
Image Credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Getty Images