In a candid revelation, Jeff Timmons, a member of the popular boy band 98 Degrees, has shed light on his battle with mental health during the band’s rise to fame. The singer, now 52, features in the new documentary “Boy Band Confidential,” where he reflects on the struggles he faced while the group was gearing up for success under Motown Records.
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Timmons shared that he often felt like the “weakest link” within the group, grappling with self-doubt and physical discomfort. He recalled the difficulties of that period, stating, “I just didn’t feel good about myself. I didn’t feel good, physically. I couldn’t sleep, and my head wasn’t right.” These feelings led him to a dark place, where thoughts of ending his struggles surfaced. “I felt so worthless… I thought, ‘Just end it,’” he revealed, highlighting the intense pressure artists often face behind the scenes.
Despite these overwhelming feelings, Timmons sought a way to overcome his mental health issues. Determined not to succumb to despair, he confided in the band’s manager, expressing his urgent need for help. “I went to our manager and I said, ‘I need some help. If I don’t get some sort of help, I will not be here. This is over. And I mean, seriously,’” Timmons recalled.
Fortunately, the manager acted promptly, seeking the right support for Timmons. He was introduced to a psychiatrist, who helped him navigate his mental health challenges with both therapy and medication. Timmons also mentioned being placed on a specific diet that contributed to his recovery. Within three months, he felt a renewed sense of well-being. “It doesn’t make this any easier, but at least I felt better that I didn’t want to die,” he said, signifying the importance of taking those first steps towards recovery.
Bandmate Nick Lachey elaborated on the changing landscape of mental health care for artists. He noted that contemporary musicians face less stigma when prioritising their mental health compared to the 1990s. “You’ll see a Bieber cancel a tour… because, ‘My mental health needs to come first.’ That was not an option when we were out there,” Lachey explained.
He reminisced about the era when artists were expected to endure relentless pressure without voicing their struggles. “You went out there and did the show… but you didn’t bow out. You worked so hard to get there, you couldn’t let your foot off the gas,” he added, highlighting the intense expectations placed on performers.
As a part of “Boy Band Confidential,” Timmons and his bandmates are taking steps to bring attention to these important issues. The documentary aims not only to share their stories but also to normalise discussions around mental health in the music industry. The show is set to premiere on Monday, April 13, and Tuesday, April 14, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Investigation Discovery. Both episodes will also be available for streaming on HBO Max.
The conversation around mental health is increasingly recognised in today’s society, yet challenges remain. Timmons’ experience serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help amid the pressures of fame. For individuals struggling with similar challenges, support is readily available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988, or through their website at 988lifeline.org, offering immediate help and resources 24/7.
As more artists like Timmons and Lachey share their stories, it potentially paves the way for a safer, more understanding environment for those in the entertainment industry grappling with mental health issues. Their narrative contributes to the growing discourse on the necessity of mental well-being, further encouraging future generations of artists to prioritise their health along with their careers.