Kim Kardashian West is urging people to have "compassion" for her husband, Kanye West! As People reports, Kim took to Instagram on Wednesday to make a statement, openly talking about Kanye's mental health for the first time.
Kim explains she's speaking out "because of the stigma"
Kardashian shared her lengthy statement on Wednesday via a series of text photos on her Instagram story. "As many of you know, Kanye has bi-polar disorder," she began. "Anyone who has this or has a loved one in their life who does, knows how incredibly complicated and painful it is to understand."
Then, she explained why she'd chosen to talk about her husband's diagnosis. "I've never spoken publicly about how this has affected us at home because I am very protective of our children and Kanye's right to privacy when it comes to his health," Kardashian said. "But today, I feel like I should comment on it because of the stigma and misconceptions about mental health."
Kardashian states those with mental illness need to seek help
Kardashian then addressed the struggle of mental illness, particularly in regards to how it can affect those around the affected individual. "Those that understand mental illness or even compulsive behavior know that the family is powerless unless the member is a minor," she said.
That's why she wanted to address the topic, as not everyone shares the same awareness surrounding mental health. "People who are unaware or far removed from this experience can be judgmental," Kardashian continued, "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 says those close to West "know his heart"
Kardashian went on to talk about the conversation surrounding West and his bipolar disorder. "I understand Kanye is subject to criticism because he is a public figure and his actions at time can cause strong opinions and emotions," she said of her husband, who she celebrated her 6 year anniversary with in May.
"He is a brilliant but complicated person who on top of being an artist and a black man, who experienced the painful loss of his mother, and has to deal with the pressure and isolation that is heightened by his bi-polar disorder. Those who are close with Kanye know his heart and understand his words sometimes do not align with his intentions."
Kardashian on West: "many of his dreams have come true"
Kardashian explained that while West struggles with mental health, it doesn't mean he's not able to accomplish his goals! "Living with bi-polar disorder does not diminish or invalidate his dreams and his creative ideas, no matter how big or unobtainable they may feel to some. That is part of his genius and as we have all witnessed, many of his dreams have come true," she shared.
"We as a society talk about giving grace to the issue of mental health as a whole, however we should also give it to the individuals who are living with it in times when they need it the most," she concluded. "I kindly ask that the media and public give us the compassion and empathy that is needed so that we can get through this. Thank you for those who have expressed concern for Kanye's well-being and for your understanding."
West caused concern after his Twitter meltdown on Monday, where he claimed that Kardashian and Kris Jenner tried to have him "locked up," among other bizarre statements. Kardashian isn't the only public figure to have a compassionate view towards West's struggles! Halsey took to Twitter on Monday to send support to the rapper, opening up about her own battle with bipolar disorder.
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