In her new documentary, "Lainey Wilson: Keepin’ Country Cool," the acclaimed country artist Lainey Wilson bravely shares her personal battle with mental health challenges amidst her rapid rise to fame. She recounts experiencing profound depression and anxiety, including multiple emotional breakdowns and an enduring panic attack, even as she continued to perform. Her journey highlights the intense pressures of newfound stardom and the search for authentic selfhood beyond public persona, ultimately finding solace and renewed purpose through the wisdom of country icon Reba McEntire.

The documentary delves into Wilson's experiences shortly after her career breakthrough, a period she describes as a whirlwind where all her aspirations materialized simultaneously. Driven by a fear of missed opportunities after years of striving, she found herself accepting every engagement, pushing her limits to an unsustainable degree. This relentless pace led to a profound sense of disorientation, as she realized her self-worth had become inextricably linked to her professional achievements and public image, overshadowing her true identity. Wilson, who identifies as an "introverted extrovert," found it increasingly difficult to reconcile the demands of her public life—recording, touring, and engaging with fans—with her need for personal rejuvenation.

During a candid discussion with her manager, Mandelyn Monchick, Wilson confessed to feeling utterly unlike herself for an extended period. The cyclical nature of her anxiety spiraling into depression, and vice versa, left her questioning her mental state. She expressed bewilderment at experiencing such profound lows during what should have been the most fulfilling chapter of her life. Monchick vividly recalls a distressing phone call from Wilson, who was overwhelmed by uncontrollable crying and a sense of losing her grip on reality while at St. Louis airport. Despite this intense emotional distress, Wilson remarkably continued her performances, even amidst a multi-day panic attack, a testament to her resilience but also to the immense pressure she was under. The experience was terrifying for her, marked by a perceived chemical imbalance and the fear of being perpetually trapped in that mindset, fueling a vicious cycle of anxiety.

In a pivotal moment, Wilson sought advice from her idol and former collaborator, country legend Reba McEntire. When asked how one perseveres when feeling utterly depleted, McEntire's simple yet profound response—"I do it for somebody else"—deeply resonated with Wilson. This shift in perspective, from performing for personal validation to performing for her audience, became a powerful motivator. It helped her reframe her purpose, enabling her to step onto the stage with a renewed sense of dedication to her fans.

Today, Lainey Wilson, a Grammy winner for her album "Bell Bottom Country," has cultivated a more balanced relationship with her career. She reflects on the immense self-imposed pressure to be perfect in every aspect of her artistry—from her singing to her appearance. Acknowledging that minor imperfections don't dismantle her established position, she has found a sense of stability and confidence, easing the stress of constant scrutiny. This newfound understanding has allowed her to distinguish between her identity as an artist and her authentic self. She emphasizes that while accolades are a byproduct of success, they do not define her as a person, a realization crucial for maintaining her well-being and staying grounded amidst the dazzling but demanding world of entertainment. Her documentary, "Lainey Wilson: Keepin’ Country Cool," offers a raw and inspiring look into her journey, premiering on Netflix on April 22.