Around 500 guests gathered at the Hôtel Le Beauvallon in St. Tropez on July 23rd. The awareness event focused on people with mental health problems. Not only was Robbie Williams a guest, he also gave a speech where he spoke candidly about his mental health.
The visibly nervous 48-year-old didn’t hold back in front of the audience. “I have ADHD, body dysmorphic disorder, depression, dyslexia, and anxiety about social situations like tonight,” Willams revealed. FYI: People with body dysmorphic disorder perceive themselves as “disfigured”.
“I’d rather stay isolated”
Robbie Williams listed the other illnesses he suffers from: “I’d rather stay isolated, which is really bad for me. I suffer from compulsions, microphobia and I am an alcoholic. I’m an addict.” Incidentally, microphobia is the fear of small things like germs.
Williams has struggled with alcohol and drug problems since the beginning of his career. In 2007 he was admitted to a rehabilitation center. He now lives clean, but he still feels the consequences of consumption to this day. According to the Daily Mail, he suffers from severe memory loss.
His fame makes things worse
Williams also shattered the often idealized view of artists during his speech. “Being famous and successful doesn’t exempt you from mental health problems. In fact, it can actually exacerbate the mental health issues that many of us are struggling with.” The audience included former Health Minister Jens Spahn, moderator Sylvie Meis and the former Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz.