Kim Kardashian West Speaks Out About Husband Kanye’s Bipolar Disorder

On July 22, the Keeping Up with the Kardashians star spoke out publicly about her husband Kanye West and his struggle with bipolar disorder. In a series of Instagram stories, Kardashian West addressed the rapper’s recent behaviour, writing: “As many of you know, Kanye has bi-polar disorder. Anyone who has this or has a loved one in their life who does, knows how incredibly complicated and painful it is to understand.”

While Kardashian West said she’d never publicly spoken about her husband’s mental health or how it’s affected their home life—out of protectiveness for their children and West’s privacy—she felt that she needed to comment due to the stigma and misconceptions about mental health.

“Those that understand mental illness or even compulsive behavior know that the family is powerless unless the member is a minor,” she continued. “People who are unaware or far removed from this experience can be judgemental and not understand that the individual themselves have to engage in the process of getting help no matter how hard family and friends try.”

Kardashian West went on to say that while she understands how as a public figure, West’s actions can cause strong opinions and emotions, those close to the rapper know that his isolation is heightened by his bi-polar disorder, and that his words sometimes don’t align with his intentions. She also emphasized that his diagnosis does not invalidate his creativity or genius. “We as a society talk about giving grace to the issue of mental health as a whole,” Kardashian West concluded, “however we should also give it to the individuals who are living with it in times when they need it most. I kindly ask that the media and public give us the compassion and empathy that is needed so that we can get through this.”

Sending the Kardashian West family love and support at this time.