Mental health issues and eating disorders are challenges that many people face. Lily Allen has bravely shared the battles that she is fighting on her latest podcast episode, offering insight into her personal struggles and encouraging open dialogue about these topics.
The transatlantic podcast ‘Miss Me?’, hosted by Lily Allen and Miquita Oliver, frequently explores personal issues the two face as well as weekly pop-culture highlights. It was founded earlier this year and will be taking to the stage in London next year for its first live show. On the most recent episode, Allen opened up about “issues with eating”, revealing that she feels disconnected from her body and has recently “stopped eating”.
SECOND NIGHT ADDED DUE TO EXTRAORDINARY DEMAND ON FRIDAY 7th MARCH. Tickets go on sale Monday 16th December at 4pm. Sign up at https://t.co/Ax7baZb0Ii to receive a link when the sale starts pic.twitter.com/WtmUSxCNWK
— Lily Allen (@lilyallen) December 13, 2024
“I’ve been going through a tough time over the last few months and my eating has become a real issue.” Allen shared. “My therapist and I talk about it and she says, ‘How long has this been going on?, And I said, ‘Well about three years really.’”
The British singer-songwriter explained that she’s only recently started addressing these concerns. “It just hasn’t seemed at the top of the list of important things that I need to talk about, but obviously it is.” She speculated that her ADHD may play a role in why she hadn’t opened up about food-related issues before, adding, “I spend a lot of time in my head, and not a lot of time thinking about my body.”
This is not the first time Lily Allen has spoken so candidly about mental health. In 2017, she discussed her bipolar disorder diagnosis, and has spoken about her struggles with body image. In an interview for ITV, she recalled that she “used to sleep for days so that [she] didn’t eat”.
Known for chart-topping, debut single ‘Smile’, Allen spoke on the topic of addiction with regards to fame in January 2021, sharing her own experiences with alcohol and the prescription drug Adderall. The former was a coping mechanism for anxiety, while the latter was used to lose weight during her time supporting Miley Cyrus on her ‘Bangerz’ tour.
Allen’s openness mirrors a growing trend among musicians who are speaking out about the mental health challenges they face in an industry known for its relentless demands. Katie Melua, a British singer-songwriter known for 2003 hit ‘The Closest Thing to Crazy’, recently shared her own journey, including an acute psychotic breakdown earlier in her career.
Speaking on the Origins With Cush Jumbo podcast, the singer-songwriter explained that the pressures of the music industry and touring led to her hospitalisation. “I had to go on medication. I had a really good doctor looking after me, and then my family were incredible.” Melua explained.
She emphasised the self-care habits that she has utilised to ensure her well-being: “I think it’s all about the people you surround yourself with, and also knowing yourself and knowing what kind of small warning signs might be. So I really treasure my sleep – so important.” Alongside this, she stressed the importance of “hydration”, “talking”, and “hugging”, sharing one of the most effective therapy tools for her was the mantra “take one day at a time”.
Mental health discussions are becoming more prominent in the music industry inspiring artists to prioritise their well-being by cancelling shows when necessary. Lewis Capaldi, Shawn Mendes, and The Last Dinner Party are notable examples.
Shawn Mendes Cancels All Tour Dates to ‘Take the Time I’ve Never Taken Personally’ https://t.co/D2Qg71qmRN — Variety (@Variety) July 27, 2022
These examples of individual actions are part of a broader shift toward demanding systemic change. Following the death of Liam Payne in October, a petition was launched calling for legislation to safeguard the mental well-being of artists. This movement reflects the growing demand for support structures in an industry that has long neglected these issues.
Please sign and share our petition to enact legislation to safeguard the mental health of artists in the entertainment industry. This campaign is very close to our hearts. #LiamsLaw #JusticeForLiam https://t.co/b6lyH8pBoC
— #LiamsLaw (@LiamsLaw_) October 21, 2024
By sharing her experiences, Lily Allen shines a light on the interconnection between mental health and eating disorders, contributing to breaking the stigma surrounding these issues. Her candid reflections promote the importance of seeking help, prioritising self-care, and fostering conversations about mental well-being. Alongside other artists, Lily Allen continues to use her platform to inspire others who may resonate with her struggles and contributes to the growing call for change in the music industry.
