Robbie Williams has said he fears that fame will “kill” him, as he opened up about his mental health.
The singer has spoken openly about his struggles with depression and addiction in the past, and in a new interview he explained how he believes living in the spotlight has been a major cause of his illness.
Robbie told The Times (£): “I don’t know if I’d be this mentally ill without fame. I don’t think it would be as gross or as powerful if it hadn’t have been for fame.
He added: “This job is really bad for my health. It’s going to kill me. Unless I view it in a different way.”
Robbie cited being a “chronic people-pleaser” as one of the reasons why he thinks fame has had such a negative impact on his health, saying his desire to appease fans often leads to “a sort of exasperation”, as he finds many social situations traumatic.
Robbie previously spent time in rehab in 2007, where he was treated for addiction to speed, acid, heroin, cocaine and prescription drugs.
He has also battled alcohol addiction, and continues to struggle with anxiety.
Speaking in October last year, Robbie admitted he had always been able to hide his mental health problems, but has chosen to speak out about them.
“There is only a two-minute window that people see into my life - four or five if I’m on ‘Graham Norton’, making a video or on stage,” he told The Sun.
“That is the golden panto that is my life. You put yourself in the best light possible when you can for the short amount of time. It’s the Facebook life - but I still suffer from anxiety.”
Useful websites and helplines:
- Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393
- Samaritans offers a listening service which is open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK and ROI - this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill.)
- Get Connected is a free advice service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994 or email: help@getconnected.org.uk