Lady Gaga Reveals She Filmed ‘A Star Is Born’ on Lithium, Which Led to a Psychotic Break

Lady Gaga, one of the most influential pop stars of our time, has recently opened up about a deeply personal and challenging period in her life. In a candid interview, she revealed that she was taking lithium during the filming of the critically acclaimed movie *A Star Is Born*. This medication, prescribed to manage her mental health, unfortunately coincided with a severe psychotic break that profoundly impacted her career and personal life. This article explores Lady Gaga’s mental health journey, the struggles she faced during this turbulent time, and how she ultimately found healing and hope.

The Impact of Filming ‘A Star Is Born’ While on Lithium

During the height of her career, Lady Gaga was balancing multiple high-profile projects, including the filming of *A Star Is Born*. The movie not only showcased her acting talents but also earned her an Oscar win for Best Original Song with “Shallow” and a nomination for Best Actress. However, behind the scenes, Gaga was grappling with her mental health.

She disclosed that she was on lithium, a mood stabilizer often prescribed for bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions, throughout the filming process. Lithium can have significant side effects, and for Gaga, it contributed to a psychotic break—a severe mental health crisis characterized by a loss of contact with reality.

In her own words, Gaga shared a poignant moment when her sister expressed concern, saying, “I don’t see my sister anymore.” This statement underscored the profound changes and struggles Gaga was experiencing internally, despite her outward success.

The Consequences of the Psychotic Break on Her Career and Health

The psychotic break had far-reaching consequences for Lady Gaga’s career and well-being. Shortly after completing *A Star Is Born*, she embarked on the *Joanne* world tour in August 2017. However, the tour was abruptly canceled by February 2018, with Gaga citing severe pain caused by fibromyalgia, a chronic pain disorder.

More than just physical pain, Gaga’s mental health was deteriorating. She recounted a terrifying episode when she had to seek psychiatric care in a hospital, admitting, “I completely crashed. It was really scary. There was a time where I didn’t think I could get better.” This admission highlights the severity of her condition and the immense challenges she faced during this period.

Despite these hardships, Gaga’s resilience and determination to heal became evident. She credits her recovery to a strong support system, including her fiancé, entrepreneur Michael Polansky, whose love and care played a crucial role in her journey back to health.

Finding Strength and Recovery: Lady Gaga’s Mental Health Journey

Lady Gaga’s story is not just one of struggle but also of hope and recovery. After her psychotic break and the cancellation of her tour, she took the necessary time to focus on her health and well-being. She describes herself now as a “healthy, whole person,” expressing gratitude for being alive and able to continue her career and personal life.

Her journey to recovery involved rediscovering herself and reclaiming her identity beyond the pain and challenges. Gaga’s latest album, *Mayhem*, reflects this process, with themes centered on rediscovery and resilience. The album has earned her seven Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year, signaling a triumphant return to the spotlight.

In her reflections, Gaga emphasizes the importance of love and authentic connection. She shared, “Being in love with someone that cares about the real me made a very big difference.” This insight sheds light on how personal relationships and emotional support are vital components of mental health recovery.

Conclusion

Lady Gaga’s revelation about filming *A Star Is Born* while on lithium and experiencing a psychotic break offers a powerful reminder of the complexities of mental health, even for those who seem to have it all. Her openness helps destigmatize mental illness and encourages others to seek help and support during difficult times. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, remember that recovery is possible, and reaching out for help is a courageous first step. Stay inspired by Lady Gaga’s journey and take action today—prioritize your mental well-being and connect with loved ones who can support you.