Camila Cabello has been a beacon of light for many, not just through her music but also through her candid discussions about mental health. The former Fifth Harmony member and now successful solo artist has opened up about her struggles with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), shedding light on the importance of self-kindness and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
Cabello’s journey with anxiety became public when she left the stage early during a Fifth Harmony concert, citing “too much anxiety.” This moment resonated with many, as anxiety disorders affect 28.8 percent of adults in the U.S., according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). For many fans, especially younger ones, seeing someone they admire openly discuss their mental health struggles can be incredibly validating and encouraging.
Growing up, Cabello didn’t have many role models who spoke openly about mental health. This lack of representation can make individuals feel isolated in their struggles. However, Cabello’s openness provides a much-needed example for her fans, showing that it’s okay to seek help and talk about mental health issues.
Cabello’s recent discussions about her mental health have been particularly impactful. She has spoken about the complexities of living with anxiety and OCD, and the stigma that often accompanies taking medication for mental health issues. Despite her global fame, Cabello has felt guilty for not always feeling great, a sentiment that many can relate to. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, stating, “I think it’s really treating yourself with kindness and love.”
Her background as an immigrant has also influenced her perspective on mental health. Born in Havana to a Cuban mother and Mexican father, Cabello moved between countries before settling in Miami, Florida. She notes that in many immigrant families, mental health is not always a priority due to the focus on survival. This cultural context can add another layer of complexity to understanding and addressing mental health issues.
Cabello’s family has been a significant source of support and inspiration for her. Her mother, who worked tirelessly to provide for the family after they moved to the U.S., instilled a strong work ethic in Cabello. This “immigrant hustle” mentality has been a driving force in her career, but it has also made her more aware of the need to balance hard work with self-care.
In her music, Cabello has often explored her Latin roots and the influence of her family. Her previous album, “Familia,” was written during the Covid pandemic and delved into these themes. Her latest album, “C,XOXO,” represents a more experimental sound and includes collaborations with artists like Drake, Lil Nas X, and Playboi Carti. Despite the risks associated with this new direction, Cabello embraced the challenge with a mindset of “what’s the worst that can happen?”
Recording the album was an intense process, with Cabello and her team spending ten days in the Bahamas, often working long hours in the studio. This dedication to her craft is a testament to her resilience and passion for music. However, it also highlights the importance of taking breaks and practicing self-care, something Cabello has learned to prioritize.
Cabello’s openness about her mental health has not only helped her fans but has also contributed to a broader conversation about mental health in the music industry. Many artists, including Zayn Malik, Selena Gomez, and Billie Eilish, have also spoken out about their struggles, helping to destigmatize mental health issues and encourage others to seek help.
For Cabello, practicing self-kindness and compassion has been crucial in managing her mental health. She believes that the more empathy and understanding we have for ourselves, the more we can extend that to others. This message of self-compassion is particularly important in a world where many people feel pressured to always appear happy and successful.
In conclusion, Camila Cabello’s candid discussions about her mental health have made a significant impact on her fans and the broader conversation about mental health. By sharing her experiences, she has helped to break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encouraged others to seek help and practice self-kindness. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that it’s okay to not be okay and that self-compassion is a vital part of mental health.
Source: BBC Newsbeat, National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
