Destiny's Child's Michelle Williams Seeks Help For Depression At Mental Health Facility

Destiny's Child singer Michelle Williams just let her fans know that she's been receiving treatment for depression.

On Tuesday, July 17, 2018, Williams posted a message on her Instagram account, explaining that she'd often encouraged others to take care of their own mental health and was now doing the same for herself. "For years I have dedicated myself to increasing awareness of mental health and empowering people to recognize when it's time to seek help, support and guidance from those that love and care for your wellbeing," the 37-year-old began. "I recently listened to the same advice I have given to thousands around the world and sought help from a great team of healthcare professionals."

Williams continued, "Today I proudly, happily and healthily stand here as someone who will continue to always lead by example as I tirelessly advocate for the betterment of those in need." She added, "If you change your mind, you can change your life."

According to TMZ, Williams has checked herself into a mental health facility outside of Los Angeles for depression. The gossip rag reports that she's been there for several days.

Williams has opened up about her struggle with depression in the past. Speaking with The Talk in October 2017, Williams revealed that'd she'd been suffering from the mental illness since she was a teenager and throughout her days in the super successful girl group Destiny's Child, though she didn't know that it was depression at the time. Explaining that she wanted to "normalize" the conversation around mental health, Williams shared that her depression had, at one point, made her feel suicidal: "I was to that place where it got so dark and heavy because sometimes you feel like, 'I'm the provider. I take care of people. I'm not supposed to be feeling this way. What do I do?' I wanted out."

Since sharing with her followers that she'd been seeking treatment, Williams has received an onslaught of support from her fans, peers, and loved ones. Missy Elliott tweeted out a response to Williams' news, writing, "I want to lift our sis up in prayer because there are so many people battling this & many trying to deal with it alone." She went on, "Please No jokes this is REAL & as human beings let's keep the ones who are openly dealing with it uplifted & be encouraging to them! Love u @RealMichelleW."

Former Destiny's Child member LaTavia Roberson also spoke out about Williams' announcement, tweeting, in part, "@RealMichelleW today you showed the world why your a class act! Depression is real especially in our community. This is why I believe in live out loud and in color. Keep shining."

Beyoncé's mother even joined in the conversation, telling Williams in the comments section of her post, "Michelle My Belle, I'm so proud of you! You have given unselfishly of your time and support to so many and I know that you will be the best example of self-care, which we all need. Keep being a warrior and an advocate for you. I love and support you with all my being" (via E! News).

If you or anyone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).