Pop star Halsey has shared her ongoing health battles with fans, expressing gratitude for being alive amidst her chronic health issues. The 29-year-old singer, who uses she/they pronouns, took to Instagram on June 4 to announce the release of her new single "The End" from her forthcoming fifth studio album. The post provided a stark glimpse into her life, capturing both the highs and lows of her journey.
"Long story short, I’m lucky to be alive. Short story long, I wrote an album. It begins with 'The End'. Out now," Halsey wrote, tagging the Lupus Research Alliance and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The message was accompanied by a series of video clips showing Halsey undergoing various medical treatments, including infusions, and wearing a headscarf and mask. One particularly striking clip showed her massaging her legs, remarking, "I feel like an old lady."
In a heartfelt video, Halsey elaborated on her struggles, saying, "I told myself I’m going to give myself two more years to be sick. At 30 I’m having a rebirth and I’m not going to be sick. I’m going to look super-hot, have lots of energy, and I’m just going to get to redo my 20s in my 30s."
The singer has been candid about her health issues in the past. Following the birth of her child, Ender, in July 2021, Halsey disclosed multiple diagnoses, including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Sjogren's syndrome, mast cell activation syndrome, and POTS (postural tachycardia syndrome). She also struggles with endometriosis and bipolar disorder, the latter of which she was diagnosed with at 17.
In her new song "The End," Halsey addresses the ongoing confusion and frustration of her health struggles. Lyrics like, "Every couple of years now, a doctor says I'm sick / Pulls out a brand new bag of tricks / And then they lay it on me / And at first, it was my brain, then a skeleton in pain," poignantly capture her experience. The haunting, gritty folk number, co-produced by Michael Uzowuru and Alex G, is a raw and emotional portrayal of her journey.
Halsey’s announcement has sparked an outpouring of support from fans. One Instagram user commented, "Halsey is the voice for so many chronically ill. Just another reason why she’s my hero since I have something for the rest of my life but still want to live my dream. I love you so much." Another fan wrote, "I love you. Chronic illness is hell but you’re incredible."
Halsey’s struggles have not only impacted her health but also her career. In April 2023, she parted ways with her longtime record label, Capitol Records, after eight years. Despite the bittersweet decision, her managers expressed excitement about exploring new partnerships and sharing new music with fans. Halsey's upcoming album will be her first release under Columbia Records.
The proceeds from "The End" will be donated to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Lupus Research Alliance, further emphasizing Halsey's commitment to raising awareness and supporting research for these conditions.
Reflecting on her journey, Halsey’s father, John Hundley, told News 2, "She brought such joy to our family, to our lives that we’re just going to miss her every day." Fellow "American Idol" alum Danny Gokey shared his condolences on Instagram, highlighting Halsey's infectious joy and support for others in the music industry.
As Halsey continues to navigate her health challenges, her transparency and resilience serve as an inspiration to many. Her ability to channel her pain into powerful music and advocate for chronic illness awareness underscores her strength and commitment to her craft and community.