Photo credit: Getty images
Kehlani is opening up about the routines and support systems she relies on to manage her mental health while living with bipolar disorder.
In a Billboard cover story published Thursday, Aug. 20, the R&B singer discussed the importance of maintaining a consistent routine and taking care of her physical and emotional well-being.
Kehlani, whose full name is Kehlani Parrish, said managing her diagnosis requires several daily practices, including medication, exercise, yoga, walks and spending time outdoors. She also described prayer and her relationship with God as important parts of her routine.
The 31-year-old musician explained that maintaining these habits is particularly important because of the demands of working in the music industry. Late nights in the studio and irregular schedules can make it difficult to maintain healthy habits, which is why she has learned to prioritize a structured routine.
Kehlani described a typical music industry cycle in which artists may spend the night working in the studio, sleep through the following day and return to work without having eaten properly or spent time outside.
She said having a routine that supports her wellness is necessary for her to maintain her health while continuing to create music.
The "Folded" singer also called for greater support for artists who experience mental health challenges. She argued that the music industry should place as much importance on artists' well-being as it does on promoting and marketing their work.
Kehlani said artists need to be healthy enough to continue creating, noting that creativity depends on people having the opportunity to take care of themselves.
She publicly revealed in April 2025 that she had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. In a 2026 interview with VIBE, she reflected on the work that followed receiving her diagnoses.
Kehlani explained that treatment included medication and different forms of therapy, including somatic healing. She also said the experience helped her develop greater awareness of her symptoms and triggers and understand what kind of lifestyle works best for her.
She has also become more comfortable communicating her needs to people around her. Kehlani explained that she has identified warning signs that indicate she may be struggling, including a lack of sleep or appetite, speaking unusually quickly and suddenly taking on numerous new interests.
She said she has encouraged people close to her to recognize those signs and intervene when necessary, including contacting her psychiatrist if she is experiencing a crisis.
Through her recent comments, Kehlani continues to emphasize the importance of understanding her mental health and building routines that allow her to balance her personal well-being with her demanding career.
