Carnie Wilson’s Depression Journey: ‘It Ebbs and Flows’x
From ‘Hold On’ to Holding On: Carnie Wilson’s Mental Health Story
Carnie Wilson, beloved singer from the 90s pop group Wilson Phillips, is using her voice to do more than sing. In an exclusive conversation, Wilson shared the realities of living with depression, her experience with sobriety, and her mission to support others through the “Connecting with Carnie” campaign.
“I grew up with some depression as a young girl. I remember being bullied and teased,” Wilson said. “It contributed to my sadness. I always came home very sad because of my weight.”
Carnie Wilson’s Lifelong Battle with Depression
The Carnie Wilson depression journey began early in life, shaped by family dynamics and public expectations. As the daughter of Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson, Carnie grew up surrounded by music — and anxiety.
Diagnosed with low-chronic depression, Wilson explained, “There are days when I wake up and my outlook is just a little more fearful. Other days, I feel hopeful and want to seize the day. The point is, it ebbs and flows, and that’s OK.”
Finding Healing in Music and Sobriety
Music has always been a source of comfort for Wilson. She credits the harmonies of Wilson Phillips and the creative process with helping her cope. “When we first started singing, I realized the healing that came from harmony. It had a deeper meaning,” she shared.
Wilson is also open about her past struggles with addiction. “I turned to drugs and alcohol… but it was about escaping, hiding, and not wanting to feel,” she admitted. Now 20 years sober, she attributes much of her healing to a 12-step recovery program and a connection with a higher power.
Advocating for Mental Health and Tardive Dyskinesia
Wilson’s personal experiences with depression and Bell’s palsy have led her to become a passionate mental health advocate. She is now partnering with Neurocrine Biosciences for the “Connecting with Carnie” campaign, aimed at raising awareness about tardive dyskinesia (TD).
TD is an involuntary movement disorder that affects at least 800,000 adults in the U.S., often linked to long-term use of antipsychotic medications. Wilson interviews individuals living with TD, caregivers, and professionals to foster connection and reduce stigma.
“I want to stop people from being scared to reach out to someone they know and love,” she said. “We have to advocate for each other. That’s the only way we’re going to be better in this world.”
Personal Connection to the TD Community
Although she doesn’t have TD herself, Wilson empathizes deeply with those who do. “I have suffered from Bell’s palsy, and I know what it feels like to deal with something abnormal with the face. It made me feel for people who have TD,” she explained.
Many with TD face social stigma, cancel social plans, and feel judged due to their symptoms. Wilson’s message is clear: “It’s okay to talk about what we struggle with and to ask for help.”
A Message of Hope and Connection
The Carnie Wilson depression journey is one of resilience and advocacy. Her openness inspires others to face their struggles and reach out for support.
“When we don’t understand something, we’re fearful. I want people to know that asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s strength,” she said. “Healing began when I reached out.”
