Popular rapper and singer Yo Yo Honey Singh has opened up about the physical and emotional impact of undergoing long-term treatment for bipolar disorder, revealing that he experienced complete hair loss during his recovery journey.
Speaking on the ABtalks podcast, Honey Singh recalled the difficult years he spent battling mental health challenges and substance abuse.
‘I stayed inside for years’
The singer revealed that he remained isolated for several years due to his condition.
“For three years, I didn’t step out of my bedroom. Even while taking a shower, I kept the bathroom door open because I was scared I would die,” he said.
Honey Singh explained that bipolar disorder pushed him into destructive thoughts and severe fear despite those fears not being real.
Says medication affected his appearance
The singer shared that the heavy medication prescribed during treatment significantly changed his body and appearance.
“I was on heavy medication for seven years. I became 105 kilos because of it, and I lost my hair completely. This is fake hair; I am totally bald. This is a wig,” he revealed.
Mental health experts say certain medications used to treat bipolar disorder can interfere with the normal hair growth cycle, leading to temporary hair loss.
Doctors explain link between treatment and hair loss
According to mental health specialists, mood stabilisers and psychiatric medications may push hair follicles into a resting phase, resulting in excessive shedding over time.
Experts also note that stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, poor sleep, and emotional exhaustion associated with bipolar disorder can affect hair health.
Doctors advise patients not to stop psychiatric medication abruptly and recommend consulting specialists if side effects occur.
Understanding bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings, including emotional highs known as mania and emotional lows associated with depression.
Symptoms may include changes in sleep patterns, mood instability, fatigue, racing thoughts, sadness, loss of interest, and difficulty concentrating.
Experts emphasise that early diagnosis, therapy, healthy habits, and proper medical support can help people manage the condition and lead stable lives.