In a candid interview published on 20 August 2026, R&B artist Kehlani opened up about her ongoing battle with mental health after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder (BPD) in April 2025. The singer, born Kehlani Parrish, emphasised the importance of maintaining a strict routine to support her wellness and navigate her challenges.
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Kehlani has been transparent about the tools and practices that help her maintain a balanced life. In her interview with *Billboard*, she outlined the measures she takes to ensure her mental health is prioritised. “I take medicine. I have to go to the gym; it’s not an option,” she explained. Alongside fitness, she also engages in yoga, nature walks, and spiritual practices, including prayer, stating, “I have to build a relationship with God.”
The musician highlighted how the demanding nature of the music industry can disrupt health and well-being. “You get in this cycle where you wake up at 6 p.m. because you were at the studio until 7 a.m.,” she said. Kehlani expressed concern over how such late-night work schedules could lead to missing vital daylight hours and meals. She stresses the necessity of having a routine that allows her to thrive despite the industry’s pressures. “I have to have a routine supporting my wellness so I can freaking survive,” she reiterated, underscoring the challenges faced by many artists.
In her interview, she also called for more support for artists confronting mental health issues. “We need a lot more support for our wellness,” Kehlani asserted. She believes that mental health should be regarded with the same level of importance as the marketing and promotion of music. “How do we ensure this person is well and can survive? Because art only comes when we can take care of ourselves,” she pointed out, highlighting a broader industry concern.
Reflecting on her journey since her diagnosis, Kehlani shared insights into her growth and understanding of her conditions. Speaking to *VIBE* in April 2026, she noted, “When you finally have the tools, you have the diagnosis. But along with the diagnosis comes the work.” Kehlani shared that after receiving her diagnosis, she sought medication and various therapeutic approaches, including somatic healing, which helped her develop a deeper awareness of her symptoms and triggers.
She has also become more open with those close to her about her needs and warning signs associated with her mental health. “Hey, if you see these signs [of] I’m not sleeping, I’m not eating, I’m talking really fast. All of a sudden, I want to pick up 17 new hobbies, and I might dye my hair pink, maybe call me in and tell me I’m tripping,” she advised, indicating the importance of having a supportive network.
Kehlani’s commitment to transparency aims to destigmatise conversations surrounding mental health within the music community. She encourages others to speak out and share their experiences to foster understanding and compassion. This candidness not only aids her healing process but also serves as an inspiration for fans and fellow artists navigating similar challenges.
As mental health continues to be a pressing topic within the arts and entertainment sectors, Kehlani’s experiences stress the importance of self-care and the need for supportive frameworks in music environments. Her journey exemplifies how awareness, medication, and community support play vital roles in managing mental health, particularly in high-pressure industries.
If you or someone you know is facing struggles with mental health, emotional distress, or substance use issues, resources are available. In the UK, individuals can reach out to mental health services or helplines that provide 24/7 support to those in need.