Former Destiny’s Child member Michelle Williams hasn’t shied away from her struggles with depression. Last year, she opened up about battling mental health issues while being a member of one of the top-selling female groups of all time. But on Tuesday, she revealed even more when she posted a statement on social media sharing her experiences seeking help to stay healthy, explaining that she would continue to be a mental health advocate by practicing what she preached.
“For years, I have dedicated myself to increasing awareness of mental health and empowering people to recognize when it’s time to seek help, support and guidance from those that love and care for your wellbeing,” she wrote in a post that she shared on Twitter and Instagram. “I recently listened to the same advice I have given to thousands around the world and sought help from a great team of healthcare professionals. Today I proudly, happily and healthily stand here as someone who will continue to always lead by example as I tirelessly advocate for the betterment of those in need.”
https://twitter.com/RealMichelleW/status/1019351898418176000
According to TMZ, Williams—who made headlines following her reunion with DC3 during Beyonce’s historic Coachella performance—checked herself into a mental health facility outside of Los Angeles for a few days before releasing the statement on Twitter.
According to studies, most Americans have been affected by mental illness, but they often don’t get the help they need due to social stigmas. Williams, aware of that stigma, shared her struggles on the CBS show The Talk last year, saying that she had battled symptoms of depression since she was a teenager, but didn’t realize she was suffering until her mid-30s. She also said that at one point, she had suicidal thoughts.
“So many people are walking around acting like they’ve got it all together and they’re suffering,” she explained on the show.
On social media, Williams was met with an outpouring of support. Beyoncé’s mother Tina Knowles Lawson shared some encouraging words, writing on her post: “Michelle My Bell, I’m soo proud of you! You have given unselfishly of your time and support to so many and I know that you will be the best example of self care which we all need.” Missy Elliott and Solange also chimed in with uplifting messages.
https://twitter.com/RazzleTazzleMag/status/1019622280169705472
https://twitter.com/Christiana1987/status/1019372651746349057
https://twitter.com/MrErnestOwens/status/1019392724645154817
Williams joins a growing list of celebrities who have used their platforms to speak honestly about mental health. Meghan Trainor recently discussed her battle with anxiety and depression, while stars like Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, and Lena Dunham have all publicly taken time off for self-care.