Lil Nas X is sharing a deeply personal update with fans.
The Grammy-winning artist, who rose to global fame with the record-breaking hit Old Town Road, posted a candid video message on July 17 revealing that he has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. In the emotional update, Lil Nas X spoke openly about his recent mental health journey, his time away from the spotlight, and how treatment has helped him regain a sense of balance.
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mental health condition characterized by episodes of elevated mood, known as mania or hypomania, and periods of depression. While symptoms can significantly impact daily life, treatment, therapy, and support can help individuals manage the condition and maintain stability.
Addressing fans directly, the musician acknowledged how difficult it was to discuss such a personal topic publicly.
“Hey. I really wanted to talk to you guys. It’s no way I’m going to be able to make this not awkward because it’s really awkward for me. But I wrote down a few notes so I can at least make sure I say the things that I do want to say,” he began.
The artist then revealed that he has spent recent months focusing on his health and recovery.
“First, where I’ve been. I’ve been in rehab for a few months and since then I’ve been back at home, whether it’s in Atlanta with my family or in Los Angeles with myself and friends and whatnot, and trying to ground myself down to earth and get out of my head. I have a therapist now and a psychiatrist, which has been really helpful.”
For fans who have followed his career over the past several years, the update provided some insight into why the singer has been less visible publicly. Rather than rushing back into the spotlight, he explained that he has been prioritizing healing and surrounding himself with supportive people.
Lil Nas X also admitted that his diagnosis was not entirely surprising to him. Looking back, he said he had suspected something was wrong for years but struggled to fully accept it.
“When I got my bipolar disorder diagnosis i feel like i had known for like the past few years but I didn’t want to admit to it because i didn’t want to have to take medication…I don’t know how people think different of me, I mean I’m already like Black and gay, like damn God…come on…I’m like living life on extreme hard mode,” he joked.
The moment balanced honesty with the humor that has long become one of his trademarks. Throughout his career, Lil Nas X has built a reputation for being remarkably open with fans, often using social media to discuss both his successes and challenges with refreshing candor.
While the diagnosis brought its own set of concerns, he emphasized that he is currently in a much better place.
“But on a serious note, I’m doing much better…I’m feeling better, I’m creating freely and there’s less fear in my heart..I’m smelling the roses,” Lil Nas X went on to say.
That renewed sense of optimism appears to be carrying over into his creative life as well. The artist confirmed that new music is on the horizon, something fans have been eagerly anticipating.
“I’ve been doing music for seven years now, that’s crazy. Speaking of music, I want to let you guys know that there is new music on the way. And I’m not getting completely to that just yet, but I’m excited to do that. And I’m excited to go on this journey with you guys. This next chapter…we’ve been through so much together. Thank you guys for holding it down and I love you and all I want to do is continue to try to make you proud and make myself proud. So let’s go dream, boy. Let’s go.”
The message marks the beginning of what appears to be a new chapter for the star—one focused on wellness, self-understanding, and creative freedom. For an artist whose career has often been defined by breaking barriers and challenging expectations, his willingness to discuss mental health openly may prove just as impactful as any chart-topping hit.
