The American musician Lil Nas X has disclosed that he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder during a recent stay in a rehabilitation facility. The 25-year-old artist, whose real name is Montero Lamar Hill, made the announcement on social media, stating that he had been struggling with the condition and sought professional help. In a series of posts, he said that he was “open” about his mental health journey and encouraged others to seek support.
The disclosure has drawn a positive response from mental health campaigners in the United Kingdom, who have long advocated for greater openness and destigmatisation of mental health issues, particularly among young people and in the entertainment industry. Bipolar disorder, a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood swings, affects an estimated 1.3 million people in the UK, according to NHS data.
Campaign group Mind praised Lil Nas X for his “courageous” decision to speak publicly, noting that it could encourage others to seek help. The musician has been in the public eye since his 2018 breakthrough single “Old Town Road”, and has frequently spoken about the pressures of fame and the importance of authenticity. His announcement comes amid a broader cultural shift in the UK and elsewhere, where celebrities and public figures are increasingly sharing their mental health struggles.
The Labour MP and mental health campaigner, Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan, described the disclosure as “a significant moment” that could help “shift the dial” on public perceptions. Critics, however, have questioned the timing and context of the announcement, with some suggesting that it risks trivialising a serious condition.
But campaigners have emphasised that every public conversation about mental health, including those by high-profile individuals, contributes to a healthier societal dialogue. The UK government has invested additional funding in mental health services, but campaigners argue that more needs to be done to reduce waiting times and improve access to care. Lil Nas X’s disclosure is likely to amplify calls for further action.
The rapper, known for his genre-defying music and provocative public persona, has not commented on how the diagnosis will affect his future work or tour schedules. However, he has confirmed that he remains under medical supervision. The news was first reported by the entertainment website TMZ and later confirmed by his representatives.
