“I Chose Self-Sabotage: A Journey of Personal Struggle”
Lola Young, a rising British singer-songwriter, recently shared her experiences of personal struggle and self-sabotage, shedding light on her journey to recovery.
I Chose Self-Sabotage: A Journey of Personal Struggle
Young’s challenges became public after her collapse on stage at the All Things Go festival in September 2024. This incident marked a pivotal moment in her life, which she now reflects upon as her “breaking point.”
Behind the Scenes: Struggles and Breakthroughs
Before her collapse, Young was experiencing an intense period of growth in her career. Her hit single “Messy” had charted on the Billboard Hot 100, elevating her profile considerably. However, this success came with a demanding schedule filled with interviews and promotional events. Balancing her career with her mental health proved increasingly challenging.
Young has openly discussed her battle with schizoaffective disorder and substance dependency. In her own words, “You want to say yes to everything because everything’s on the table, but you also have to balance that with your mental health.” She chose to confront her struggles, stating, “I chose to hurt myself and self-sabotage.”
Path to Recovery
According to a New York Times interview published in August 2025, Young sought treatment for her substance issues in November 2024 and faced a relapse in mid-2025. Notably, her collapse at the festival came shortly after this report, prompting her to decide to take a break from her career for self-care.
- Timeline of treatment:
- November 2024: First treatment facility stay.
- Summer 2025: Return to treatment after relapse.
- September 2024: Collapse at All Things Go festival.
- Recovery Focus:
- Two months in lockdown at treatment facility.
- Incorporating therapy into her program.
- Attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.
During her time away from the limelight, Young emphasized the importance of mental health and the support she received from fellow artists. Elton John, Katy Perry, Charli XCX, Kesha, and Lady Gaga reached out to her, providing encouragement when she needed it most.
Returning to the Stage
Since her recovery, Young has made a significant comeback. Notably, she performed at the Grammy Awards in February 2025, where she won the award for Best Pop Solo Performance for “Messy.” Today, she expresses gratitude for her journey, stating that the challenges she faced have ultimately made her a better person for her fans.
Young’s story of personal struggle and recovery serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health and resilience in the face of adversity. She continues to navigate her career with newfound insight and strength.
