In an exclusive video interview with Variety, renowned singer and bestselling author Hayley Kiyoko delves into the challenges she faced on her path to stardom, shedding light on the impact of long-term stress on her mental and physical well-being. Kiyoko candidly discusses her personal struggles and joins forces with the American Heart Association to advocate for mental health awareness.
Kiyoko reveals the intense pressure she experiences as a result of her prolonged tenure in show business. The constant expectation to be on stage and perform takes a toll on both her body and mentality, prompting her to contemplate effective stress management while pursuing her passion.
Reflecting on her teenage years, Kiyoko discloses the emotional turmoil she faced while hiding her true self. At sixteen, she grappled with depression and loneliness, compounded by the necessity to pretend to be someone she wasn’t. With no understanding community to support her, Kiyoko turned to music as a therapeutic outlet, finding solace in playing the guitar and writing songs.
Hayley Kiyoko Opens Up About Her Struggle
The turning point in Kiyoko’s journey came with the breakout success of her 2015 single, “Girls Like Girls,” which went viral. This marked the moment she decided to publicly come out, a move that connected her with the LGBTQ community and provided a supportive network.
Despite professional success, Kiyoko faced personal tragedy in 2017 when her father’s heart condition worsened, leading to a heart and liver transplant. This traumatic event, coinciding with the pinnacle of her career, thrust her into a state of emotional turmoil.
Kiyoko emphasizes the profound impact her father’s health scare had on her priorities, prompting a reevaluation of life’s significance. Facing the potential loss of her father, she underscores the importance of regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle free from stressors.
The singer shares practical tips for maintaining well-being, including journaling, acupuncture, proper nutrition, fresh air, sunlight exposure, and engaging in music. Kiyoko believes that despite life’s inevitable stresses, eliminating stress triggers through various techniques is essential.
Advocating for mental health and heart health awareness, Kiyoko emphasizes the interconnectedness of stress and heart health, urging individuals to prioritize their well-being. She calls for a conscious effort to adopt healthier lifestyles and emphasizes the significance of maintaining both mental and physical health.
In her Variety interview, Kiyoko not only provides a glimpse into her personal struggles but also becomes an advocate for global mental health and heart health awareness. Navigating the challenges of the entertainment industry, coming out, and coping with her father’s health crisis, Kiyoko’s experiences resonate with many. Through her platform, she continues to raise awareness and inspire those grappling with stress, anxiety, and depression disorders.
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