Lady Gaga Reveals Mental Health Struggle and Lithium Use During A Star Is Born Filming in the United States

Pop superstar Lady Gaga recently opened up about a challenging period in her life, revealing that she experienced a psychotic break while on a controversial medication during the filming of her hit movie A Star Is Born.

Her story has reignited public interest in lithium, a mood-stabilizing drug with a long history in mental health treatment.

The singer disclosed that she was taking lithium carbonate, a prescription medication typically used for bipolar disorder, when she endured severe mental health struggles, including a hospital stay during her Joanne world tour in 2018.

While Gaga has not confirmed a formal bipolar diagnosis, she has spoken publicly about her experiences with PTSD and depression.

What Is Lithium and How Does It Work?

Lithium carbonate is a centuries-old treatment first discovered in 1817 and used to manage mania as early as 1871.

Approved by the FDA in 1970, it remains a gold standard therapy for bipolar disorder due to its effectiveness in stabilizing mood swings.

Though powerful, lithium carbonate can produce significant side effects, including tremors, nausea, frequent urination, excess thirst, thyroid dysfunction, and kidney damage.

While not addictive, improper dosing can lead to toxicity or accidental overdose.

A Potentially Safer Alternative: Lithium Orotate

Emerging research highlights lithium orotate, a dietary supplement form of lithium, as a potentially safer, low-dose option for general mood regulation.

Whereas prescription lithium doses range from 600mg to 1,800mg daily, lithium orotate is typically taken in 1mg to 5mg doses, minimizing side effects while providing benefits for mood, stress, and cognitive function.

Dr. James Greenblatt, a dual board-certified psychiatrist, explains that lithium orotate is not a replacement for treating serious conditions like bipolar disorder, which still requires prescription lithium under medical supervision.

However, it may be suitable for mild mood fluctuations, impulsivity, or irritability.

Mental Health Benefits Beyond Mood

Recent studies suggest lithium may have broader neurological benefits.

Research links higher natural lithium concentrations in drinking water with lower suicide rates and fewer psychiatric hospitalizations.

A 2025 Harvard University study also found that low-dose lithium orotate helped prevent brain cell damage in early stages of Alzheimer’s disease in mice and human models, suggesting protective effects against memory loss.

Suggested Readings (News continues below)

Iranian Women Footballers Seek Asylum in Australia After Asian Cup Anthem Boycott on Gold Coast

Team USA suffers shocking World Baseball Classic loss to Italy threatening early exit in Houston Texas

Nigerian Ministry of Aviation restores hybrid airport payment system to ease traffic in Lagos and Abuja airports

UK Government Approves Metropolitan Police to Ban Controversial March in London This Sunday

Lithium appears to reduce inflammation, support neuron growth, and improve brain chemical balance.

Costs and Accessibility

Cost is another key difference between the two forms of lithium.

Lithium carbonate requires a prescription and can range from $50 to $800 per month depending on brand and insurance.

Lithium orotate, in contrast, is widely available as an over-the-counter supplement, typically costing $10 to $30 per bottle.

Greenblatt emphasizes that anyone interested in trying lithium orotate should start with low doses and consult a healthcare provider, especially if they are on other medications or have pre-existing health conditions.

Impact and Consequences

Lady Gaga’s revelations have helped destigmatize discussions around mental health and the use of powerful medications like lithium.

Public awareness of both prescription lithium and supplement forms like lithium orotate may encourage more people to explore safe, informed options for mood stabilization.

Additionally, the growing research on lithium’s neuroprotective effects may influence future treatment approaches for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and suicidal ideation.

What’s Next

Experts suggest continued research into low-dose lithium supplements for mental health and neuroprotection.

Meanwhile, clinicians stress that prescription lithium remains essential for serious mood disorders, while supplements may serve as an adjunct for general wellness or early intervention.

As more celebrities like Lady Gaga share their mental health journeys, public conversation around psychiatric treatments and brain health is expected to expand, potentially improving access and understanding.

Summary

• Lady Gaga revealed she took lithium carbonate while filming A Star Is Born and suffered a psychotic break in 2018.

• Lithium carbonate is a prescription mood stabilizer mainly used for bipolar disorder but comes with serious side effects.

• Lithium orotate is a low-dose supplement alternative that may improve mood, cognition, and stress management.

• Studies suggest lithium may also protect against suicide and early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.

• Medical supervision is essential, especially for higher doses or serious mental health conditions.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Gaga’s mental health struggles have raised awareness of lithium treatments.

• Lithium carbonate: effective but high-risk, requires prescription, 600–1,800mg daily.

• Lithium orotate: over-the-counter supplement, low-dose 1–5mg, fewer side effects.

• Research links lithium to suicide prevention and neuroprotection.

• Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use.

• Lithium may benefit mild mood swings, cognitive function, and early dementia prevention.