Kelsea Ballerini, the renowned country music artist, recently opened up about her decision to distance herself from certain social media platforms due to the toxic environment she encountered. Despite her popularity, Ballerini admitted to still reading comments, which she acknowledged as one of her toxic traits. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, she shared her journey towards finding a healthier balance online, revealing that she had already bid goodbye to Twitter a while back as it proved to be overwhelming for her. Quoting her own song, “Doin’ My Best,” Ballerini described Twitter as a platform that “kicked my ass,” prompting her to eventually deactivate her account.
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Reflecting on a turbulent phase in her life, Ballerini confided that she also delved into Reddit during that time, but the experience turned out to be toxic. She realised the need to set boundaries and consequently decided to step away from the platform. Now, she primarily engages with her audience through TikTok and Instagram, albeit cautiously, acknowledging her sensitivity to negative feedback and her inclination towards people-pleasing behaviour. Ballerini candidly shared that even a single mean comment could affect her deeply as an artist.
Having long been an advocate for therapy, Ballerini credits it with providing her with invaluable insights into her tendencies towards seeking validation from others. Through therapy, she learned to prioritise what truly matters and reduce the significance of external feedback, a lesson that continues to shape her approach to social media interactions. Additionally, therapy has been a source of solace for Ballerini, aiding her in overcoming challenges such as an eating disorder during her teenage years and the trauma of witnessing a school shooting.
The introspection gained from therapy sessions has profoundly influenced Ballerini’s creative output, culminating in her latest album, Patterns. She expressed a profound self-awareness regarding her imperfections, viewing them as opportunities for personal growth. Embracing her journey towards self-acceptance, Ballerini highlighted the importance of understanding oneself before truly loving oneself, indicating a newfound sense of self-celebration and acceptance that has transformed her perspective on life.
In a world where societal stigma often shrouds discussions around mental health and personal struggles, Ballerini’s openness about her therapeutic journey serves as a beacon of empowerment and normalisation. By sharing her vulnerabilities and triumphs, she not only honours her own growth but also encourages others to engage in meaningful conversations about mental well-being. Ballerini’s resilience and commitment to self-discovery serve as an inspiration to her fans and peers alike, a testament to the transformative power of introspection and self-acceptance.
For more insights into Kelsea Ballerini’s journey of self-discovery and resilience, grab a copy of the latest issue of PEOPLE, available on newsstands this Friday. Through her candid revelations and unwavering honesty, Ballerini continues to redefine what it means to navigate fame, creativity, and personal well-being in the complex landscape of the music industry.