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Lady Gaga has recently opened up about her struggle with psychosis, coinciding with the release of her seventh studio album, Mayhem. In a candid interview on a New York Times podcast, Gaga revealed that five years ago, she experienced a period where she was “not deeply in touch with reality,” which significantly impacted her life.  “[Five years ago], I had psychosis. I was not deeply in touch with reality for a while. It took me out of life in a big way, and after a lot of years of hard work I got myself back,” Gaga revealed.

She emphasized the importance of acknowledging such challenges, stating, “It’s something that I have found increasingly harder to talk about. I hate feeling defined by it. It felt like something I felt ashamed of. But I don’t think that we should feel ashamed if we go through times like that. I mostly just wish to say, it can get better. It did for me, and I’m grateful for that.”  

During this challenging period, Gaga met her now-fiancé, Michael Polansky, who played a pivotal role in her recovery. She shared how Polansky said right at the outset, ‘I know you could be a lot happier than you are,’ and supported her journey towards healing. Gaga expressed, “It was really hard for me to hear him say that because I didn’t want him to think that of me. I wanted him to think I was like this happy, totally together person.”

Polansky’s influence extended beyond her personal life into her music career. He encouraged Gaga to return to pop music, leading to the creation of Mayhem. The album, released on March 7, marks a departure from her previous work, embracing a more experimental and eclectic sound. Collaborations with artists like Gesaffelstein and Bruno Mars contribute to its diverse musical landscape. Notable tracks include the catchy dark electro pop Disease, the disco-inspired Zombieboy, and the powerful duet Die With a Smile featuring Bruno Mars.

Critics have praised Mayhem for its bold approach and Gaga’s return to a more authentic sound. The album blends industrial dance elements with ’80s funk and grunge, showcasing Gaga’s versatility as an artist, says Pitchfork. Her dramatic vocals and the album’s curated chaos have been highlighted as standout features, signaling a rejuvenation of her music.

Meanwhile, Gaga’s openness about her mental health struggles and the support she received from Polansky have resonated with fans worldwide. Her journey serves as a reminder that recovery is possible and that seeking help is a sign of strength. For those facing similar challenges, resources are available. See below:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
  • Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741
  • SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  • Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth) – Call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678, or chat at thetrevorproject.org
  • Trans Lifeline (Run by and for trans people) – Call 877-565-8860
  • LGBT National Help Center – Call 888-843-4564

International LGBTQ+ Crisis Hotlines:

  • Canada: Talk Suicide Canada – Call 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
  • UK: Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline – Call 0300 330 0630
  • Australia: QLife – Call 1800 184 527 or chat at qlife.org.au
  • Philippines – 📞1553 📞180018881553 📞09190571553 📞09178998727 or

ncmhusaptayo.com

  •  International LGBTQ+ Support: ILGA World provides global LGBTQ+ resources

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for support. You’re not alone.

As Gaga continues to promote Mayhem, her story of resilience and artistic evolution inspires many, reinforcing the importance of mental health awareness and the transformative power of music.

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