In a new interview with Billboard, Korn’s Brian ‘Head’ Welch opened up about his struggles with mental health, making it clear that his issues were not tied to his wealth or status.
The guitarist recalled his journey from personal turmoil to finding a supportive community, emphasizing that his success and fame did not shield him from mental health challenges. He shared:
“Man, I was so lost, and I had so many mental health issues. And it had nothing to do with being rich and famous or not because I was successful! I just had a horrible time with my emotions and mental state. But I’m living proof that you can get through it, and you can change. You can get to a new place where you find contentment in life, where you find joy.”
The Power Of Music And Recovery
Welch’s struggles with depression were deeply rooted in his early life experiences, including a history of bullying that led to extreme self-hatred and isolation. This emotional turmoil persisted into his adult life, casting a shadow over his achievements with Korn.
Music played an important role in Brian’s life, offering him solace during his childhood and eventually leading him to Los Angeles, where his journey with Korn began. Despite the band’s success and pioneering role in the nu-metal genre, Welch battled with crystal meth addiction, further complicating his mental health struggles.
A Beacon Of Hope
In a significant move towards healing, Welch recently partnered with Atlantic Behavioral Health, a treatment center focusing on mental health disorders. This partnership reflects his commitment to supporting others facing similar battles. He said the following in a statement:
“I will never, ever forget the depths of the dark energy that lived upstairs in my mind, many years ago. It was truly like living in an emotional dungeon with zero light, and I couldn’t find the key to get out. Partnering with Atlantic is so personal to me and not just another business to invest in. I know what it feels like to live at the bottom of a dark pit, but I also know if you put in the work, the light will come back on, and Atlantic is going to help so many people find that light switch.”
Reflecting on his transformative journey, Welch is optimistic about the future. His happiness and mental well-being have significantly improved over the past two decades. Meanwhile, Korn is celebrating their 30th anniversary with a special concert on October 5 at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. This one-time event will feature guests like Evanescence, Gojira, Daron Malakian, and Scars on Broadway, Spiritbox, and Vended.
