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Nasty comments about Mariah Carey's bipolar disorder sadly explains the mental illness stigma
Mariah Carey’s latest interview was her most revealing yet. The 48-year-old singer said she has been living with bipolar disorder for much of her life.
In the People magazine exclusive, Carey revealed she was diagnosed in 2001 and immediately went into a state of disbelief. “I didn’t want to believe it,” she told told People editor in chief Jess Cagle. “Until recently I lived in denial and isolation and in constant feat someone would expose me. 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.”
Carey’s fans immediately took to social media, applauding the singer for sharing her private struggle.
Mariah, you can’t imagine how proud of you I am today. Speaking about issues such as bipolar disorder isn’t easy. We all know you are strong. We have your back. We’ll always be there, we’ll never let you down. You’re a true inspiration & hero. You saved lives of many. Love always
— Erwan Brin (@erwan_brin) April 11, 2018
You are supported, loved and NOT ALONE “A Course In Miracles” has and continues to be my miracle in my 35 year struggle with bipolar. You will be in my thoughts, be strong
— Stella Dobson (@stellamdobson) April 11, 2018
@MariahCarey I can’t even being to tell you how happy I am you came public with Bipolar. I have been struggling to get the message out for my 6 yr old grandson who also has a different mental disorder to get help for him as I’m his guardian and having so much difficulty. Love you
— michele shore (@micheleshore2) April 11, 2018
I’ve never been a Mariah Carey fan, but I’m so proud of her for “coming out” as having bipolar II disorder. I have the same condition and it’s so hard not to feel ashamed and broken. Good for her for taking charge, seeking treatment, and serving as a role model #BreakTheStigma https://t.co/NRJ6j9ZP99
— was that kayfabe?? (@fienemannia) April 11, 2018
However, some posted nasty comments about Carey’s condition pointing back to the singer’s odd behavior over the years. One Twitter user mentioned her infamous Cribs episode in which the singer exercised on a StairMaster in stiletto heels. Several mockingly wrote, “Not surprised,” and one even took it further by saying, “If I were Mariah Carey I would’ve NEVER shared the face I was bipolar.”
Fans who support the singer’s choice to reveal her bipolar disorder immediately pointed to the mental illness stigma, which is often the reason many who suffer don’t talk about their diseases; they’re often fearful of being judged.
There’s an article about Mariah Carey revealing she has Bipolar Disorder, and the comments are disgusting. Absolutely disgusting. This is why people don’t talk about mental illness.
— Nikki (@jeerzeeegirl) April 11, 2018
This is so brave, imagine if Mariah Carey said she had bipolar in 2001 she would’ve been written off. Shows how much things have changed in 17 Years. https://t.co/dUCW3FQeBg
— Aadam (@AadamDunn) April 11, 2018
mariah carey’s honesty about finding medication & treatment is SO important in a world where ppl with mental illnesses are doubly stigmatized for taking meds. https://t.co/rGF8i7msy5
— maria yagoda (@mariayagoda) April 11, 2018
Mariah Carey opening up about being bipolar is huge. A big part of having a mental disorder is hiding it, and in reality that shit does more harm than help
— CLIT TORRES (@PATAFRIA) April 11, 2018
In the interview, Carey herself mentioned the isolation she felt by keeping her bipolar disorder a secret. “I’m hopeful we can get to a place where the stigma is lifted from people going through anything alone. It can be incredibly isolating. It does not have to define you, and I refuse to allow it to define me or control me.”
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