When one thinks of Katy Perry, images of a bubbly and carefree pop star come to mind. It turns out that Perry bravely battled depression and suicidal thoughts after her marriage to Russell Brand dissolved. She spoke out on the inspiration behind her song By the Grace of God with an Australian TV show, “Sometimes you can be blinded by your extreme emotions. I definitely was looking for answers…and during that time I wrote that song…and yeah, I was depressed and I was sad and there were thoughts, but there were never actions, thankfully.”
Perry elaborated on her choice to be open about her struggles, “I wanted to share that side of my story, because I know there are so many other people out there that have gone through things like that, and you always feel like you’re the only one going through that. You walk out the door, and you see someone you know, and they ask you how you are, and you just have to say you’re fine when you’re not really fine, but you just can’t get into it, because they would never understand. Well, then comes along a song that speaks to you, that makes you feel like ‘Gosh, I can get through this if she can get through this, I can get through this.’”
Thank goodness Katy channeled her pain into song writing and seems to be in a good place right now. It’s refreshing when a celebrity discusses hard truths about their own lives in an effort to help others. Sure, Katy has fame and fortune to fall back on, but depression can be a challenge for anyone. Life throws some harsh reality out there and sometimes it’s a big hurdle to overcome.
In light of Katy Perry‘s words, it’s important to remember that good help is out there. If you feel you need help or know someone who is struggling with depression, don’t hesitate to seek out support. Absolutely no one should suffer alone or feel like all hope is lost.
Here is a list of important resources to check out:
NDMDA Depression Hotline – Support Group: 800-826-3632
Suicide Prevention Services, Depression Hotline: 630-482-9696
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) (United States)
National Suicide Prevention Hotlines by State (United States)
International Suicide Prevention Hotline List
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
How to Help Someone Who is Suicidal
