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Kim Kardashian shares statement about husband Kanye West's mental health

Photo credit: Jamie McCarthy - Getty Images
Photo credit: Jamie McCarthy - Getty Images

From Digital Spy

This article contains discussion of bipolar disorder and mental health that some readers may find distressing.

Kim Kardashian West has spoken out about her husband Kanye West's mental health issues after he posted a host of messages to Twitter over the past few days, some about her and their child North, that caused many to express concern.

The Keeping Up with the Kardashians star shared a lengthy Instagram Stories post today (July 22) where she talked about Kanye's struggle with bipolar disorder and asked for people to be more understanding and compassionate when discussing it.

"As many of you know, Kanye has bipolar disorder," she wrote. "Anyone who has this or has a loved one in their life who does, knows how incredibly complicated and painful it is to understand. I’ve never spoken publicly about how this has affected us at home because I am very protective of our children and Kanye’s right to privacy. But today, I feel like I should comment on it because of the stigma and misconceptions about mental health.

Photo credit: Roy Rochlin - Getty Images
Photo credit: Roy Rochlin - Getty Images

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"Those that understand mental illness or even compulsive behaviour know that the family is powerless unless the member is a minor. People who are unaware or far removed from this experience can be judgemental and not understand that the individual themselves have to engage in the process of getting help no matter how hard family and friends try."

She continued: "I understand Kanye is subject to criticism because he is a public figure and his actions at times can cause strong opinions and emotions. He is a brilliant but complicated person who on top of the pressure [of] being an artist and a Black man, who experienced the painful loss of his mother, and has to deal with the pressure and isolation that is heightened by his bipolar disorder. Those who are close with Kanye know his heart and understand his words some times do not align with his intentions.

"Living with bipolar disorder does not diminish or invalidate his dreams and his creative ideas, no matter how big or unobtainable they may feel to some. That is part of his genius and as we have all witnessed, many of his big dreams have come true.

Photo credit: Edward Berthelot - Getty Images
Photo credit: Edward Berthelot - Getty Images

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"We as a society talk about giving grace to the issue of mental health as a whole, however we should also give it to the individuals who are living with in times when they need it the most," she continued.

"I kindly ask that the media and public give us the compassion and empathy that is needed so that we can get through this. Thank you for those who have expressed concern for Kanye’s well being and for your understanding."

The reality star signed off the lengthy message, "With love and gratitude, Kim Kardashian West."


We would encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. Organisations who can offer support include Samaritans on 116 123 (www.samaritans.org) or Mind on 0300 123 3393 (www.mind.org.uk). Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov.


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