Australian music icon Ella Hooper, best known as the powerhouse voice behind Killing Heidi, has courageously shared details of her private decade-long battle with mental health issues that nearly derailed her career.
The 41-year-old singer-songwriter revealed she struggled with severe depression and anxiety that left her feeling "completely overwhelmed" and unable to perform at her peak. "I was really struggling with my mental health, and I didn't have the language for it," Hooper confessed in an emotional interview.
The Breaking Point
Hooper described reaching a critical juncture where continuing her music career became impossible without addressing her psychological wellbeing. "I had to step back and really look after myself," she explained, noting that the relentless pace of the music industry had taken its toll.
The artist, who shot to fame as a teenager with the smash hit "Weir," found herself grappling with the pressures of early success and the challenging transition into adulthood under public scrutiny.
Healing Through Music
Rather than abandoning her craft, Hooper channeled her recovery journey into her most personal work yet. Her upcoming album serves as both therapeutic outlet and testament to her healing process.
"Making this record has been part of my recovery," she shared. "It's been incredibly cathartic to be so honest in my songwriting."
A Message of Hope
Now in a much healthier place, Hooper hopes her story will inspire others facing similar challenges to seek help. "There's no shame in struggling," she emphasized. "Getting help was the best decision I ever made."
The singer continues to manage her mental health through therapy, medication, and maintaining better work-life balance while preparing to share her deeply personal new music with the world.
