Robbie Williams recently disclosed that he was diagnosed with scurvy, a condition resulting from a vitamin C deficiency, earlier this year. The 51-year-old singer opened up about his health struggles in an interview with the Mirror, sharing that he had been experiencing mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, which he hadn’t felt in years.
Williams highlighted that the year began on a challenging note, describing his feelings of sadness and confusion when his long-standing battle with depression resurfaced after a significant period of stability. He reflected on his past experiences with depression, which began in his twenties, and admitted that he had hoped he was past that phase of his life.
In an effort to understand his state of mind, Williams began examining his diet, eventually realising that he had been neglecting proper nutrition. He acknowledged that his lack of food intake had led to his diagnosis, describing scurvy as a “17th century pirate disease”. The condition is uncommon in countries like the US, where nutritional deficiencies are rare due to a generally rich diet.
Following the adjustment of his eating habits, Williams reported improvements in both his physical health and mental wellbeing. He emphasised the importance of prioritising one’s health, stating, “The most important thing is for yourself to be okay.”
As he prepares to embark on a tour across the UK, Ireland, and Europe starting in May, Williams remains active in his career. His recent biographical musical drama, “A Better Man,” which was released last year, received an Oscar nomination for best visual effects, showcasing his ongoing presence in the entertainment industry amidst personal challenges.