Kelly Clarkson Desperately Pleads for Support During Heartbreaking Brandon Blackstock Divorce Journey

Kelly Clarkson opened up about her use of antidepressants during her divorce from Brandon Blackstock. The renowned singer, who gained fame with her hit song "Since U Been Gone," shared how a challenging therapy session prompted her to confront her own mental well-being.

Kelly Clarkson Rob Latour/Shutterstock

During an episode of the "Las Culturistas" podcast on Wednesday, June 28, Clarkson opened up about breaking down in front of her therapist. "I couldn't help but sob," she revealed. "I even had to cancel some appointments because I couldn't stop crying. I felt completely incapable."

Clarkson attributed her ability to cope with the initial months following her separation from Blackstock, 46, to medication. "For about two months, I was taking Lexapro," she disclosed. "At that point, I couldn't pretend to be happy for America anymore. I realized I needed assistance... and honestly, it was the best decision I've ever made. I don't know how I would have managed without it."

Clarkson's decision to consider antidepressants came after she had previously expressed strong opposition to them. Her stance was based on negative experiences she had witnessed in her childhood, leading her to believe there must be alternative methods for addressing mental health issues. However, when she went through a prolonged divorce, she eventually discussed the possibility of using medication with her therapist. Clarkson and her former spouse got married in 2013 after a year of dating and had two children together. Unfortunately, their marriage ended in 2020 after almost seven years.

Brandon Blackstock and Kelly Clarkson Matt Baron/Shutterstock

Clarkson and Blackstock's divorce garnered attention due to their lengthy legal battle. In September 2021, Clarkson, the host of The Kelly Clarkson Show, was declared legally single. She was required to pay Blackstock almost $200,000 each month, including temporary spousal support payments of $150,000 monthly. Additionally, she had to provide an extra $45,601 per month for their children. Despite the divorce, Clarkson was granted primary custody, and she has provided glimpses into her personal life through her album Chemistry, released on June 23. Prior to its launch, Clarkson stated that her fans should not anticipate the entire truth about the situation, as she excluded songs that were too revealing.

"I anticipate that listeners will have a strong reaction to this record, thinking, 'Wow, she really pushed the boundaries!' However, I assure you that this is not the case," she revealed to Entertainment Weekly in May. "I'm drawn to exploring that emotional territory. It intrigues me when a song starts off catchy and then reveals intense feelings of anger or deep sadness. Humor is also a vital tool for me in the healing process and as a way to cope. I incorporate it quite often. So, while I was writing a love song, I found myself consumed by anger. I questioned why I still held onto something that had been so detrimental."

Clarkson openly acknowledged that she had faced difficulties in openly discussing her personal highs and lows in the past.

“The intensity of the emotions overwhelmed me,” she shared, reflecting on her experience practicing on stage. "Initially, everything felt flawless, effortless, and wonderful. I was almost amazed at myself. However, suddenly, it was as if a wave of emotions crashed over me."

Earlier this month, Clarkson also disclosed that she had a conversation with Blackstock regarding her highly anticipated album. "I can't even recall how or why it happened, but I made sure to convey that our relationship is not reduced to just one aspect," she explained on the Today show. "You understand what I mean? It's a complete journey. There is beauty woven into it as well. Of course, there's also been a lot of pain, but that's a universal experience for all of us."

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).