We know Billy Joel as the “Piano Man,” the voice behind iconic anthems that have become the soundtrack to countless lives. His career is a masterclass in musical genius and commercial success. But what lies beneath the surface of a celebrity’s life, beyond the sold-out stadiums and chart-topping hits? A new HBO Max documentary, “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” pulls back the curtain on the star’s battles, revealing a raw and vulnerable side that challenges the polished image of a music legend.
The new documentary offers a rare glimpse into the personal battles Billy Joel faced at the height of his fame.
A Glimpse Behind the Curtain of a Celebrity Life
For many, the life of a celebrity seems like a fantasy, a world away from the struggles of everyday existence. But the reality is that fame and fortune do not grant immunity from mental health challenges. In today’s hyper-connected world, it is becoming more common for artists to be open about their struggles. However, for someone from an older generation, this level of openness is revolutionary. Billy Joel’s willingness to discuss his experiences with depression, a mother with an alcohol use disorder, and even a suicide attempt in his new documentary is a testament to how far we’ve come in our conversations about mental health.
The documentary reveals that in his early 20s, after a devastating personal and professional breakup, Joel felt his life spiral out of control. He found himself homeless, sleeping in laundromats and overwhelmed by depression. In the film, he speaks about suicide attempts during this dark period, by overdose from medications given by her sister, who was a nurse. His song, “Tomorrow is Today,” written at 21, is described by Joel as being “more of a suicide note.”
A Look Back: Mental Health in the 20th Century
To understand the weight of Joel’s confessions, we need to consider the era in which he grew up. In the 1960s and ’70s, mental illness was shrouded in stigma and fear. Society’s understanding of mental health was limited, and institutions that were supposed to help were often seen as repressive and damaging. There was a pervasive anti-psychiatry attitude, and people with mental health issues were often seen as “wrong” rather than met with compassion and understanding. After his second suicide attempt, Joel checked himself into an observation ward, an experience he says was life-changing.
The Weight of a Traumatic Childhood
The documentary also delves into Joel’s tumultuous childhood. He grew up in Long Island with a single mother after his parents’ divorce, an event that was far more stigmatized then than it is today. His father, a German immigrant who had escaped Nazi Germany, was an absent and “dark presence” in his life. Joel recounts in the film an incident of physical abuse where his father hit him so hard that he was knocked unconscious. His mother, though loving, battled her demons, including loneliness and alcohol use.
Growing up in such a dynamic, with the added pressure of his Jewish heritage in a post-war American suburb, undoubtedly left its mark. Clinical psychology confirms that childhood trauma can have a lasting impact on a person’s development, affecting them well into their adult life. These early experiences can lay the groundwork for later struggles with mental health and substance use.
Breaking the Silence: The Power of Openness
Today, we understand the power of sharing our stories. Being open about mental health challenges can help to break down the shame and guilt that have historically silenced so many. Joel’s candor in the documentary provides a powerful example of this. However, the age of social media presents a double-edged sword. While it offers platforms for connection and support, it also exposes individuals to a multitude of voices and opinions, which can be challenging for anyone, especially a public figure.
Understanding the Disorders and Finding Help
Joel’s story highlights the interconnectedness of trauma, depression, and alcohol use. About one-third of people with major depressive disorder also have an alcohol use disorder. It’s a vicious cycle: alcohol, a depressant, can worsen symptoms of depression, leading to a dangerous pattern of self-medication.
Symptoms that may indicate a need for professional help include:
- Persistent sadness and hopelessness.
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
- Changes in sleep or appetite.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Using alcohol to cope with negative feelings.
If these symptoms sound familiar, seeking professional help is key. Therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can be incredibly effective in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma. Treatment can help you understand the root of your struggles, develop coping skills, and learn to manage your emotions healthily. The length of treatment varies for everyone, but with time and professional support, it is possible to see significant positive changes in your well-being.
A Legacy of Resilience
Billy Joel’s new documentary is more than just a behind-the-scenes look at a music legend; it’s a story of survival and resilience. His openness about the darkest moments of his life—from childhood trauma and depression to homelessness and suicide attempts—is a powerful statement. It challenges the illusion of the perfect celebrity life and opens a door for a more honest conversation about mental health. His journey underscores that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength, and that even in the face of immense pain, there is hope for healing. By sharing his story, Billy Joel has given us more than just timeless music; he has given us a reason to talk, to connect, and to feel a little less alone in our struggles.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help from a professional and call or text 988 in the United States to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can also text “HOME” to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
By Jace A.
