Kehlani Says She Has to ‘Take Medicine’ and ‘Go to the Gym’ with Bipolar Diagnosis: ‘It’s Not an Option’

In a ‘Billboard’ cover story published on Thursday, Aug. 20, Kehlani revealed that she has to “take medicine” and “go to the gym” with her bipolar diagnosis. She revealed her bipolar disorder and BPD (borderline personality disorder) diagnoses in April 2025.

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Kehlani opened up about what non-negotiables she has for living with bipolar disorder

“I have to have a routine supporting my wellness so I can freaking survive,” the R&B musician told Billboard on Thursday, Aug. 20

Kehlani revealed her bipolar disorder and BPD (borderline personality disorder) diagnoses in April 2025

For Kehlani, it’s necessary to stay on top of her mental health.

In a Billboard cover story published on Thursday, Aug. 20, the R&B musician revealed all of the tools she uses to maintain balance with her bipolar disorder diagnosis.

“I take medicine. I have to go to the gym; it’s not an option. I have to do yoga, take walks. I have to spend time in nature: sit in the park or go wiggle my toes in somebody’s grass. I have to build a relationship with God. I have to pray,” Kehlani (born Kehlani Parrish), 31, told the publication.

She then discussed how being in the music industry can create misalignment with her health, and why it’s necessary for her to have a “routine.”

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“You get in this cycle where you wake up at 6 p.m. because you were at the studio until 7 a.m. You’ve missed a whole day of sunshine. There’s no meal. You go back to the studio at 8 p.m. You grind or die. I have to have a routine supporting my wellness so I can freaking survive,” said Kehlani.

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Elsewhere in the story, the “Folded” hitmaker also reflected on how the music industry can better support artists who are struggling.

“We need a lot more support for our wellness,” said Kehlani. “It’s just as important as how we care for and market the music. How do we ensure this person is well and can survive, because art only comes when we can take care of ourselves.”

Kehlani revealed in an April 2025 social media post that she’d been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and BPD (borderline personality disorder).

In an April 2026 interview with VIBE, she spoke about navigating her diagnoses one year later.

“When you finally have the tools, you have the diagnosis. But along with the diagnosis comes the work,” she said. “So upon getting diagnosed, I got medicated and [did] different forms of therapy [like] somatic healing, but I also gained this tool belt of awareness. I’m starting to recognize my symptoms and triggers. I’m starting to learn what kind of life I have to lead as a person whose mind is different.”

Kehlani then added that she is now being transparent with people she knows about what she needs.

For example, she said, “Hey, if you see these signs [of] I’m not sleeping, I’m not eating, I’m talking really fast. All of a sudden, I want to pick up 17 new hobbies, and I might dye my hair pink, maybe call me in and tell me I’m tripping. Call my psychiatrist. I’m in crisis,” she added.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or just needs to talk, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7.

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