Lizzo is sharing an intimate look into her mental health journey, revealing personal struggles with depression and the inspiration behind her upcoming album, Love in Real Life. During a performance at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles on March 12, the Grammy-winning artist spoke candidly about the challenges she faced in 2023, a year marked by legal battles and personal turmoil.
In a vulnerable moment towards the end of the concert, Lizzo opened up to the audience about her battle with mental health, particularly the depression she experienced in the previous year. She referenced the lawsuit filed against her by former backup dancers in August 2023, accusing her of harassment and fostering a toxic work environment. Lizzo has consistently denied all allegations.
“I named [the album] Love in Real Life because about a year and a half ago — it’s so hard for me to talk about — I was in such a dark, deep depression,” Lizzo said, her voice breaking. “I was so heartbroken by the world and so deeply hurt that I didn’t want to live anymore. I was so deeply afraid of people that I didn’t want to be seen. Eventually, I got over that fear.”
The 35-year-old singer went on to describe a pivotal moment during that difficult time when she attended a concert. Lizzo recalled walking through the crowd when a fan unexpectedly reached out and told her, “Lizzo, I love you.” The simple gesture of affection had a profound impact on Lizzo, who described it as life-changing.
“As I was walking through the crowd to get to my spot, something miraculous happened,” Lizzo said, recalling the experience. “Somebody, who I didn’t know, looked at me and said, ‘Lizzo, I love you.’ And they reached out, and I reached back, and we hugged, and it felt so damn good.”
She continued, expressing the profound impact of the interaction. “And after that experience I was like, ‘Damn, you can’t get this s— on the internet, bro. This is the kind of love you can only get in real life.’ And I don’t share that story to gain some sort of sympathy. We’re beyond that, bitch. Look at me!”
For Lizzo, this moment of connection helped her realize that real, tangible love from people could not be replaced by the superficiality of online interactions. She used the story to encourage anyone who has struggled with depression or feeling isolated to reach out for support.
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“I share that story to let you know that if you’ve been through depression, or darkness, or felt so betrayed by someone you trusted, or were lied about and hated on for those lies — you are not alone,” Lizzo told the crowd. “Reach out to someone who can listen, because you are not alone in your feelings. There is light at the end of the tunnel.”
Lizzo continued to encourage people to take action when they feel lost or unheard. “If you’re depressed, reach out to someone who will listen. If you’re mad about the government, reach out to someone else who’s mad about the government and f—ing organize,” she said, offering a message of solidarity. “If you hate the way you look, reach out to someone who loves you and who will tell you, ‘You are f—ing beautiful as you are right now, no matter how your body changes.’”
Lizzo’s words resonated deeply with her fans, many of whom cheered and expressed their gratitude for her honesty. The singer, known for her body positivity and empowering messages, emphasized that self-love and the support of others are essential for overcoming the hardest moments.
“I’m telling you right now: You are special. You are loved,” Lizzo declared. “You matter.”
At the concert, Lizzo performed a mix of her popular hits such as “Juice” and “About Damn Time,” alongside new tracks from her upcoming album, including the title track Love in Real Life and “So Bad,” which will be released on March 14.
Despite her ongoing personal challenges, Lizzo remains focused on her music career and connecting with her fans. The artist, who has faced several lawsuits from former employees alleging sexual and racial harassment, has consistently denied the allegations and continues to navigate the legal battles in the public eye.
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As Lizzo continues to rise above her struggles, she hopes her story can inspire others to seek help and lean on the support of those around them. Her openness about her mental health challenges serves as a reminder that even the most successful individuals face difficult moments, but reaching out and supporting each other is a powerful tool for healing.
For anyone experiencing mental health challenges, Lizzo encouraged people to reach out to resources that can offer help. The Crisis Text Line can be accessed by texting “STRENGTH” to 741-741, connecting individuals with a certified crisis counselor.
