The Health Struggles of Kris Kristofferson: A Look at His Journey

The Health Struggles of Kris Kristofferson: A Look at His Journey

Kris Kristofferson may be best known for his success as a singer and songwriter in the 1970s, but the artist has dealt with a number of health struggles throughout his life. From misdiagnoses to mental health battles, Kristofferson’s journey has been a long and difficult one.

Early Years and Misdiagnosis

Born in Texas in 1936, Kristofferson was a high-achieving student who also excelled in sports. After graduating from college, he joined the army and served as a helicopter pilot. Following his military service, Kristofferson attended Oxford on a Rhodes scholarship, but his true passion was music.

Kristofferson moved to Nashville in the early 1960s, and he struggled to find success as a songwriter. However, his fortunes changed when he wrote “Me and Bobby McGee,” which was a hit for Janis Joplin in 1971. Despite this success, Kristofferson’s health was beginning to deteriorate.

In 1972, Kristofferson was misdiagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. He struggled with memory issues and depression, and he found himself relying on alcohol to cope. However, a chance meeting with a psychiatrist led to a proper diagnosis of Lyme disease. With treatment, Kristofferson was able to regain his health and continue his music career.

Mental Health Struggles

However, Kristofferson’s Lyme disease diagnosis was just the beginning of his health struggles. He also dealt with depression and alcoholism for many years.

In the early 1980s, Kristofferson checked himself into rehab to deal with his alcoholism. He ultimately became sober and stayed that way for the remainder of his life.

Despite his struggles with depression, Kristofferson continued to create music that resonated with audiences. His candid, soulful lyrics touched on topics like love, loss, and the human condition.

Later Years and Legacy

Now in his 80s, Kristofferson is still making music and performing live. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to the music industry, and he is widely regarded as one of the most influential songwriters of his generation.

Kristofferson’s legacy is not just in his music, however. He has also been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, speaking out about his own struggles in order to help others who may also be dealing with these issues.

In conclusion, Kris Kristofferson’s journey has been one marked by health struggles, both physical and mental. From misdiagnosis to addiction, he has faced many challenges over the years. However, he has also found ways to overcome these challenges and continue to create art that inspires and resonates with audiences. His legacy is one of resilience, perseverance, and honesty.