Lil Nas X opens up about bipolar diagnosis and rehab, teases new music: 'There's less fear in my heart'
The musician shared an Instagram video detailing his months-long rehab stay, bipolar disorder diagnosis, and plans to release new music.
The video update
Lil Nas X posted a nearly three-minute Instagram video on Wednesday, June 17, in which he spoke openly about his mental health. He revealed he had been in rehab 'for a few months' and has since been splitting time between Atlanta, where his family lives, and Los Angeles. The artist, born Montero Lamar Hill, appeared outdoors and smiled frequently while addressing his fans.
I have a therapist now and a psychiatrist, which has been really helpful. When I got my bipolar disorder diagnosis, I feel like I had known for the past few years, but I didn't want to admit to it 'cause I didn't want to have to take medication and, I don't know, have people think different of me.
He said he is doing 'much better' and that he is 'creating freely' with 'less fear in my heart.' The 27-year-old also confirmed that new music is on the way, telling fans he wants to continue making them proud.
Arrest and legal proceedings
The update follows an arrest in August 2025, when Los Angeles police responded to reports of a naked man on Ventura Boulevard. Officers alleged he charged at them, leading to charges of battery and resisting arrest. He pleaded not guilty to four felonies. In April 2026, a judge found that the incident was linked to his since-diagnosed bipolar disorder and allowed him to enter a mental health diversion program. The charges will be dismissed if he complies with a two-year treatment plan and obeys all laws.
- Arrested in Los Angeles after allegedly charging at police officers; charged with battery and resisting arrest.
- Judge grants entry into a mental health diversion program; charges to be dismissed after two years of compliance.
- Lil Nas X posts Instagram video sharing his bipolar diagnosis, rehab experience, and plans for new music.
Response and outlook
Lil Nas X joked about his identity, saying,
He thanked fans for their support and expressed excitement about the next chapter of his career.I'm already Black and gay, like damn, God. Come on, Black, gay and bipolar? I'm living life on extreme hard mode.
The musician has been mostly absent from the spotlight over the past year, and this video marks his most extensive public statement on his mental health since the arrest. His last music release was the EP Days Before Dreamboy in March 2025.
