In 2020, renowned singer Justin Bieber released a revealing documentary on his YouTube channel, offering an intimate look into his personal battles with both physical and mental health challenges. The then 26-year-old artist, known globally for hits like “Peaches,” delved into his experiences with conditions such as Lyme disease, depression, and anxiety. A significant portion of the documentary highlighted a pivotal moment when one of his doctors expressed astonishment upon examining Bieber’s brain scans following a bipolar disorder diagnosis.
Throughout his career, Bieber has been notably transparent about his health struggles. In the documentary, he candidly discussed his past substance use and the profound realizations that prompted him to pursue sobriety. Both Justin and his wife, Hailey Bieber, shared insights into the arduous journey of managing his health after receiving a Lyme disease diagnosis. Prior to this revelation, Bieber had undergone numerous medical evaluations, striving to identify the root causes of his persistent health issues.
In one segment, Bieber confided in his doctor about his prolonged battles with fatigue and a general sense of malaise. He stated, “I realized after a series of tests that I have what’s called Lyme disease, which is a super silent disease that’s not really very well known. It’s very hard for doctors to test for it.” This diagnosis was accompanied by the discovery of Epstein-Barr virus, commonly referred to as mononucleosis or “mono,” which further complicated his health landscape.
Dr. Daniel Amen, identified as Bieber’s “brain health doctor,” provided a deeper understanding of the misdiagnosis that had previously labeled Bieber as bipolar. According to Dr. Amen, a psychiatrist in Los Angeles had diagnosed Bieber with bipolar disorder and prescribed lithium without conducting a thorough examination of his brain. Dr. Amen remarked, “When I looked at his brain, he wasn’t bipolar.” This underscores the critical importance of comprehensive evaluations in mental health diagnoses.
The American Psychological Association (APA) has highlighted that mental health symptoms, including depression and anxiety, can often be among the initial indicators of Lyme disease. Lorraine Johnson, JD, MBA, who personally experienced such challenges before receiving an accurate diagnosis, shared with the APA, “If you are misdiagnosed with a psychiatric illness, you will be treated with psychotropic medications, and those are not without side effects. And they may lead you on a road to nowhere. That’s basically what happened to me for about five years.”
Reflecting on his journey, Bieber expressed relief in finally understanding the underlying causes of his health struggles. He mentioned that it felt good to know why he felt “crappy all the time.” Hailey Bieber also commented on the situation, stating, “He just felt so sick, and there was no explanation for what was going on. So now that we have all the answers, and we know what it is, and we know how to alleviate it and fix it, I think he’s honestly not only healthier than he’s ever been, but on the road to maintaining a healthier life than he’s ever had, which is awesome.”
This documentary not only sheds light on Bieber’s personal health journey but also emphasizes the broader challenges individuals face in obtaining accurate medical diagnoses. It highlights the necessity for thorough medical evaluations and the potential pitfalls of misdiagnoses, especially when dealing with complex conditions like Lyme disease that can manifest with psychiatric symptoms.
Bieber’s openness serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for one’s health and seeking comprehensive medical care. His story resonates with many who have faced similar challenges, underscoring the need for awareness and education about conditions that are often misunderstood or overlooked.
In conclusion, Justin Bieber’s 2020 documentary offers a profound insight into the complexities of health diagnoses and the importance of thorough medical evaluations. It serves as both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on the challenges many face in the healthcare system, advocating for greater awareness and understanding of multifaceted health conditions.
