Lady Gaga Says She Took Lithium While Filming ‘A Star Is Born’ Role
Lady Gaga Opens Up About Taking Lithium During ‘A Star Is Born’
In a heartfelt and candid interview, Lady Gaga disclosed that she was taking lithium while filming her breakthrough role in the 2018 movie *A Star Is Born*. The 39-year-old singer and actress shared this revelation during a cover story with *Rolling Stone*, providing fans and the public a rare glimpse into her mental health journey during a pivotal moment in her career.
Lithium is a mood-stabilizing medication often prescribed to manage bipolar disorder and other mood-related conditions. Gaga’s admission was significant because she had not previously disclosed any specific diagnosis publicly. Her openness about using lithium while performing such an emotionally demanding role highlights the challenges she faced behind the scenes.
The Impact of Lithium on Gaga’s Performance and Well-being
While *A Star Is Born* was not Lady Gaga’s first acting role, it marked her debut as a lead actress in a major feature film. The movie was a critical and commercial success, earning Gaga an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and a win for Best Original Song with “Shallow.” Despite these achievements, Gaga’s mental health was under strain during this period.
During the filming and subsequent promotional activities, Gaga was also on her Joanne World Tour. However, in February 2018, she abruptly canceled the remaining tour dates, later revealing that she sought psychiatric care. She described a moment when her sister expressed concern, saying, “I don’t see my sister anymore,” which prompted Gaga to take a necessary break.
In her own words, Gaga recounted, “There was one day I went to the hospital for psychiatric care. I needed to take a break. I couldn’t do anything. … I completely crashed. It was really scary. There was a time where I didn’t think I could get better. … I feel really lucky to be alive. I know that might sound dramatic, but we know how this can go.”
How Lady Gaga’s Personal Life Influenced Her Healing Process
Following this difficult period, Gaga found support and healing through her relationship with her fiancé, Michael Polansky. She explained that being “in love with someone that cares about that real me made a very big difference” in her recovery. Their relationship began shortly after her hospitalization and has since been a source of strength for the superstar.
The couple’s relationship became public in early 2020, after speculation arose when they were seen together on New Year’s Eve 2019. Gaga posted a photo of them on Instagram in February 2020, confirming their romance. She later described the experience of quarantining with Polansky during the COVID-19 pandemic as “really kind of special,” emphasizing how it allowed her to focus on her personal life outside of her career.
Continuing Success Amidst Challenges
Despite her mental health struggles, Lady Gaga has continued to thrive professionally. In March 2025, she released her seventh studio album, *Mayhem*, which has been met with critical acclaim. The album is nominated for seven Grammy Awards, with Polansky playing a key role as an executive producer.
Currently on the *Mayhem Ball* tour, Gaga’s resilience and dedication to her craft are evident. Her journey underscores the importance of mental health awareness, especially in high-pressure industries like entertainment.
Conclusion
Lady Gaga’s revelation about taking lithium while filming *A Star Is Born* offers an inspiring example of vulnerability and strength. Her openness helps reduce stigma around mental health and encourages others to seek help when needed. As Gaga continues to break barriers in music and film, her story reminds us that success and personal well-being can coexist with the right support.
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