Country Star Carly Pearce Opens Up About Lifelong Battle with Anxiety and OCD
Country Star Carly Pearce Bares All About Her Hidden Struggles with Anxiety and OCD
In a candid conversation on Bunnie Xo's Dumb Blonde podcast, country music sensation Carly Pearce opened up about her two crippling mental health conditions - anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The 35-year-old singer-songwriter revealed that these issues have been plaguing her since childhood, but it took her hitting rock bottom to seek help.
A Lifetime of Struggle
Pearce's journey with anxiety began as far back as she can remember. "I've had crippling OCD since I was a child," she shared on the podcast. "I'd check my backpack over and over, check my alarm multiple times... it was like my brain just couldn't shut off." Her mom, who struggled with perfectionism herself, might have inadvertently contributed to Pearce's OCD, but the singer insisted that her mother didn't cause the issue.
"I watched and led by example," Pearce explained. "My mom had high standards for herself, and I thought I had to be perfect too." This upbringing instilled in Pearce a deep-seated need for control and order, which only exacerbated her OCD symptoms.
Covid-19: A Wake-Up Call
When the pandemic hit in 2020, Pearce's mental health issues came to a head. "I was taken off the road, going through a public divorce... my body just had a visceral reaction of like, 'Oh, my God,'" she recalled. The added stress of navigating a high-profile split during lockdown pushed Pearce to confront her demons.
"I felt trapped in my own body," she confessed, sharing that she'd often struggle to keep it together during interviews and performances. "I was conditioned over the last 10 years to just zip it up and deal with it... but I finally had to really start back into therapy."
The Turning Point
Pearce's decision to prioritize her mental health marked a turning point in her life. She began attending therapy sessions, working through her OCD and anxiety with the help of a therapist.
"I realized that my body was screaming for help," she explained. "I've been doing this therapy thing... and it's like, I'm finally starting to heal." With her newfound self-awareness, Pearce is now better equipped to manage her symptoms and focus on her music.
A Heckler's Disruption
In a recent incident at We Fest in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, Pearce demonstrated her growing confidence in speaking up for herself. A man interrupted her performance, shouting "no one cares" during her introspective moment with the audience. Undeterred, Pearce took control of the situation, firmly telling the heckler to leave.
"This is the first time I have sent somebody out of one of my shows," she declared, "but if you're going to be that mean and disrespect me, you are not welcome." The crowd erupted in applause as the man was escorted from the venue.
A Glimpse into Carly's World
The podcast episode offers a rare glimpse into Pearce's private world. Her openness about her struggles will likely resonate with fans who've followed her career over the years. With her newfound voice, Pearce is not only sharing her story but also inspiring others to speak up and seek help.
As she navigated the highs and lows of fame, Carly Pearce proved that even in the spotlight, mental health matters don't disappear. Her courage in speaking out will undoubtedly motivate fans to prioritize their own well-being.
Sources:
- Bunnie Xo's Dumb Blonde podcast
- Ian Godfrey, radio host