Since making a name for herself in the music industry, Lady Gaga has never strayed away from being her authentic self. Moreover, it is her past experiences that lead her to write songs that resonate with listeners, whether they’re upbeats tracks like “Born This Way” or soulful ballads like “Million Reasons.”
Earlier this year at the Oscars, Lady Gaga performed “Til It Happens to You,” which is dedicated to survivors of sexual assault. In the past, she has spoken openly about being raped at the age of 19. What most of us didn’t realize is that the singer still struggles, and recently admitted that she has been forced to live with PTSD since she was sexually assaulted.
During an interview for the Today show, Lady Gaga shared more details from her past.
“I suffer from PTSD,” she admitted. “I’ve never told anyone that before, so here we are. But the kindness that’s been shown to me by doctors as well as my family and my friends—it’s really saved my life.”
Although coping with a mental illness is a daily battle for Lady Gaga, she hopes that she can help other people who face similar hardships. In an effort to spread kindness, Gaga visited the Ali Forney Center in Harlem, NY, which is a non-profit organization that provides housing for homeless LGBTQ youth.
“My own trauma in my life has helped me to understand the trauma of others,” Gaga said.
“I don’t have the same kinds of issues that you have, but I have a mental illness,” Gaga said to the young people. “And I struggle with that mental illness every day. So, I need my mantra to help keep me relaxed.”
With the youth, Gaga helped them recite her personal mantra: “You are brave, you are courageous.”
“I’ve been searching for ways to heal myself, and I’ve found that kindness is the best way,” she added.
We can only hope that Gaga’s words and actions inspire more people.