JoJo Embraces Radical Openness and Welcomes New Horizons

Nick Ingalls, MA, serves as the editorial director at Verywell Mind, overseeing content creation and editorial workflows.

If you haven’t been following closely, JoJo’s journey might seem like a typical tale of early fame: a prodigious talent rising to stardom at 13 with a breakout pop hit, facing record label disputes, struggles with substance use, and bouts of depression. However, speaking with Joanna Levesque—known professionally as JoJo for the past 17 years—reveals a narrative centered on personal growth, resilience, and an extraordinary transparency in a world where mental health often remains shrouded in stigma.

Throughout her illustrious career, the GRAMMY Award-winning artist captivated audiences with her debut track "Leave (Get Out)," became the youngest nominee at the Billboard Music Awards, secured notable acting roles, and earned runner-up status on The Masked Singer. Now, she shines a light on mental wellness through her latest R&B project, "Trying Not to Think About It."

JoJo’s sincerity is palpable; our conversation flows naturally without pretense. Her candidness about mental health challenges is profoundly genuine, especially as she openly acknowledges vulnerability during the pandemic. "I’ve been taking it one day at a time," she shares. "Honestly, I initially judged myself for this, but I resumed antidepressants. I hoped that improving my diet, soaking up sunlight, journaling, meditating, and practicing yoga would suffice. Yet, I needed support, and I’m proud of that choice—it marked a pivotal moment in my healing."

JoJo’s unique upbringing fostered openness rather than fear of judgment. "Many families find it taboo to discuss emotions, but my mother’s own mental health journey made these conversations natural for us," she explains. "I became deeply attuned to discussions about depression early on."

Now 30, JoJo frequently leverages social media to share her experiences. "I never felt shame," she remarks. "Mental health struggles were common in my close circles, so discussing them with fans felt organic. It’s more burdensome to conceal such truths than to reveal them."

As we near the second anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, society increasingly recognizes the importance of acknowledging mental health challenges. The surge in demand for therapy has led to shortages, while workplaces adopt flexible schedules to foster work-life balance. Though few share intimate feelings with millions online, JoJo finds solace in her supportive community. "It’s uplifting," she notes. "Knowing I’m not alone encourages me to share my highs and lows without fear of backlash."

JoJo embraces social media’s original intent: fostering genuine human connection. "The more I reveal my journey, the stronger my bonds become," she says. "Shared experiences unite us, even if our paths differ."

Music remains a powerful medium for connection. JoJo’s 2004 hit "Leave (Get Out)" still resonates with Millennials, sparking karaoke nights and nostalgic joy. Amid the pandemic, music has served as a vital coping mechanism, offering relaxation, inspiration, and emotional uplift. JoJo’s new EP aims to provide listeners with a similar refuge. "I wanted to capture my feelings at that moment and help others feel less isolated," she shares. Created during a period of profound confusion and loss last year, the EP channels her personal mental health struggles. "I struggled to engage in activities that usually uplift me—sunlight, exercise, plant-based eating, socializing. Writing became my outlet."

Top by Prada; Jeans are stylist’s own; Videography by WesFilms.

The EP’s title, "Trying Not to Think About It," resonates universally; avoidance is a common response to stress and anxiety. "I realized I was suppressing worries about family, the world, and personal accountability," JoJo reflects. "This denial only intensified my distress. Writing and therapy helped me confront these feelings, inspiring the songs."

The lead single, "Worst (I Assume)," explores self-sabotage and debuted alongside a compelling one-shot video. The closing scene features JoJo alone in a stark white space, delivering a heartfelt message: "Be kind to yourself. It’s not easy to overcome your own obstacles. I know you’re trying—I am too. Keep going."

This simple encouragement underscores the value of small, manageable steps toward mental wellness. Unlike physical goals, emotional progress can be elusive and hard to quantify. JoJo advises starting with achievable actions, no matter how minor they seem.

While the EP reflects a challenging period marked by anxiety and depression, it ultimately conveys hope. "You’re not alone," JoJo affirms, echoing the video’s message that has touched over a million viewers. "This doesn’t have to be your permanent state. Others have endured it and emerged stronger. I remind myself of this daily."

JoJo incorporates accessible self-care practices like yoga, which she values for its breath-movement-mind connection. "Yoga is for anyone who can breathe and has a body," she says. She also journals, meditates, and enjoys scented candles. Her approach emphasizes using available tools to cultivate peace and reflection. She candidly admits past reliance on diet pills, substances, and overeating as self-medication, recognizing these behaviors can obscure true needs. "Now, I seek the natural ‘drugs’ my brain produces," she explains.

Simple actions can elevate mood—though not always easy, which is why gradual progress matters. JoJo’s daily tip: make your bed each morning. "It gives me a sense of accomplishment and consistency," she notes.

"Often, we self-medicate," JoJo reflects. "I’ve been there. But that can prevent us from understanding what our mind, body, and soul truly require."

JoJo acknowledges that her upbringing lacked structured routines, but adulthood offers the freedom to choose meaningful rituals aligned with personal values. "These habits foster stability and success," she says. "While spontaneity is enjoyable, predictable daily actions provide comfort and security."

Despite topping charts at 13, JoJo admits that early fame brought instability and challenges. "There’s no real preparation for the impact of fame," she says. "I’m still unpacking it. It can distort your sense of self-worth, making it seem tied solely to your output. That’s unhealthy, especially for a teenager. It’s taken time to realize my intrinsic value beyond performance."

As she advances her music career, JoJo prioritizes balance and self-care. "I maintain a healthier work-life harmony than ever," she shares. "I invest time in relationships and supporting others. Though trusting can be hard, I choose to see the best in people—it feels more uplifting."

Having grown up amid early 2000s pop culture, JoJo understands the pressures of fame and media scrutiny. She follows movements like Free Britney with empathy. "It’s vital our culture confronts the harm caused by idolizing and scrutinizing individuals," she says. "Britney is a talented icon reclaiming her story, which is inspiring."

JoJo’s own self-discovery is ongoing. "Growth takes time," she acknowledges. Her empowerment stems from fitness and embracing strength over appearance. She listens to her body through intuitive eating, CrossFit, or even pole dancing. "Trust your instincts," she advises. A transformative step for her was abandoning the scale, focusing instead on feeling strong and comfortable in her clothes.

JoJo’s holistic approach underscores the link between physical and mental health. Many already practice elements of this through exercise, outdoor time, and social connections—even if unconsciously.

Her music also explores self-love and self-acceptance. The track "Anxiety (Burlinda’s Theme)" personifies her struggles with depression and anxiety as "Burlinda," a reminder that these feelings are part of her but not her entirety. "I learned the power of language," she explains. "Saying ‘I am depressed’ can deepen identification with that state. Instead, I express that I’m experiencing these feelings, which helps me maintain perspective."

Whether or not one pursues professional help, maintaining effective routines is crucial. For JoJo, this includes medication, therapy, and self-care. "A balanced approach is best," she advises. "Don’t rely solely on one method; explore what you can do yourself."

Though discussing antidepressants and therapy can feel taboo, it’s essential to accept help and be kind to oneself, regardless of stigma. Privacy is valid, but awareness and acceptance are key.

Looking ahead, JoJo plans an intimate six-date tour—her first live performances since the pandemic began. "While social media connects us, nothing replaces the healing power of gathering, singing, and being together in person," she says.

Credits

• Talent: JoJo
• Photographer: Felisha Tolentino
• Creative Director: Hillary Comstock
• Makeup Artist: Joseph Carrillo
• Hairstylist: Clayton Hawkins
• Manicurist: Jolene Brodeur
• Stylist: Anna Katsanis
• Stylist Assistant: Paulina Castro Ogando
• Producer: Jeremy Thomas
• Videographer: WesFilms
• Booking: Samantha Kane

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By Nick Ingalls, MA
Nick Ingalls is the editorial director at Verywell Mind, overseeing content production and editorial strategy since 2016.

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