Michelle Williams Opens Up About Battling Depression

The singer reveals that exercise and therapy helped her through the dark days.

Posted: 01/18/2013 12:06 PM EST
Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams recently revealed that she'd been fighting depression since her teens, but had decided to tell her story for the first time in the hopes that others find the strength to get through their own battles, too.

"We're taught, 'Just go to church and pray about it. The Lord is going to heal you.' Well, in the meantime, I believe God-gifted people, physicians, doctors, therapists — that's your healing. Take advantage of it," she said. "Go see a professional so that they can assess you. It's OK if you're going through something. Depression is not OK, but it is OK to go get help."

The singer, who's currently starring in a national tour of the Broadway musical Fela! and is set to release a collection of love songs with former Destiny's Child members Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland, said her depression began when she was 15 or 16 and she hasn't taken medication to treat it. She added, "I had to choose to get out of bed and do whatever I needed to do to be happy."


BET.com always gives you the latest fashion and beauty trends, tips and news. We are committed to bringing you the best of Black lifestyle and celebrity culture.  

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.

(Photo: AP Photo/Matt Sayles, file)

Videos You May Like

Comments

Global Week in Review: G8 Summit Kicks Off in Ireland

Plus, Obama pledges to support Syrian rebels. 06/18/2013

The Kids Are Not Alright: The 411 on LGBT Bullying

How you can stop LGBT bullying in your school. 06/17/2013

Health Rewind: Are Black Autistic Kids Missing Out on Special Services?

Plus, California expands Medicaid and more health news. 06/17/2013

The Rundown: Kanye West, Yeezus

A track-by-track breakdown of 'Ye's game-changing LP. 06/18/2013

The Rundown: Kelly Rowland, Talk A Good Game

The singer is pretty honest on her latest LP. Is it enough? 06/18/2013

The Rundown: J. Cole, Born Sinner

A track-by-track review of the rapper's sophomore effort. 06/18/2013