In a recent cover story for PEOPLE magazine, country music artist Lainey Wilson has opened up about her personal struggles with mental health, specifically anxiety and depression. At just 33 years of age, the rising star has faced significant challenges as her music career began to flourish.
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Wilson has revealed that throughout her career, she has benefited from the guidance of three therapists, one of whom assists her specifically in navigating the complexities of her professional life. “She helps me get a point across with a little bow wrapped on top,” she explains, alluding to her tendency to express herself passionately, which she describes as her “Louisiana crazy side.” The artist emphasises the importance of creating a positive working environment, particularly when touring with a large team. “I want it to be an environment that people want to come and work,” she states, highlighting her desire for longevity in the music industry.
Her journey in the music business began when she moved to Nashville in a camper trailer at 19, after nearly a decade of perseverance, she signed her first major-label deal in 2018. However, success has not come without its emotional toll. Wilson recounts her strenuous radio tour in 2019, which contributed to an overwhelming sense of anxiety and culminated in a panic attack that lasted several days. “I was going around meeting every radio station in America,” she recalls. This relentless schedule took its toll, leaving her feeling exhausted and burnt out, prompting a desire to retreat from the world.
Wisdom from her mentor Reba McEntire has also played a crucial role in Wilson’s coping strategies. McEntire’s advice to dedicate her efforts to others during moments of overwhelm proved transformative for Wilson. “When I feel like I can’t do it anymore, I do it for somebody else,” she remembers, describing how this perspective shifted her understanding of her responsibilities as an artist.
As part of her recent Whirlwind world tour, which concluded on March 6, Wilson took the opportunity to uplift young fans by inviting a “cowgirl of the night” on stage at each performance. She took the time to reassure these young women that they are capable and talented, a gesture that she believes reflects her commitment to both her art and her audience. For Wilson, her identity encompasses much more than just being a singer or songwriter. “Trophies and awards are things that come along with success, but it cannot define me as a person,” she asserts, stressing the importance of maintaining her sense of self amid outside recognition.
In conjunction with her tour, Wilson is eager to share her mental health journey with a wider audience through her forthcoming Netflix documentary, *Lainey Wilson: Keepin’ Country Cool*, set to premiere on April 22. Her hope is that by revealing her experiences, she can encourage others to discuss their mental health openly. “Speak up when you’re not feeling great, because there most likely will be people around you who can help you through it,” she advises, underscoring the importance of communication and support in overcoming such challenges.
Wilson emphasises that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather a crucial step towards healing. She encourages individuals to articulate their feelings to those around them, suggesting that doing so can lead to vital support. “If you’re not telling the people around you how you’re feeling, then nobody’s going to know,” she acknowledges.
As Wilson prepares for the release of her documentary and continues her journey in the public eye, her candid discussions about mental health serve as a beacon for others grappling with similar issues. For more insights and personal stories from Lainey Wilson, readers can find the latest issue of PEOPLE, available on stands this Friday.