Sam Smith gives up alcohol as he reveals anxiety battle

Sam Smith has opened up about his struggle with mental health. 

The ‘Too Good At Goodbyes’ singer is currently performing in front of thousands of fans across the world as part of The Thrill Of It All Tour, but has revealed he suffers from crippling anxiety.

In a new interview with The Sun, the Oscar, Grammy and Brit-winning singer opened up about the anxiety that leaves him terrified of going on stage. 

Smith explained: “I get massive anxiety. I really struggle. I was so nervous at the Grammys this year.

“I thought I would be more in control of my body and emotions but I get so nervous, to the point I’m almost having panic attacks.

“Sometimes I need people who I love around me to tell me, ‘Pull yourself together, you’re being a drama queen – it’s too much now, Sam, so rein it in.” 

The 25-year-old added that his problems with his anxietycame to head towards the end of last year.

“My anxiety levels and mental health went through a shaky period at Christmas,” he explained. “But I’ve started meditating now, I am not drinking, I am trying to look after my mental health.”

“Mental health issues are coming to the fore because people are starting to talk about it. So many people go through stuff. For me, my music has been my therapy.” 

Speaking about his decision to give up alcohol, Smith said: “I was going out drinking way too much. Of course, you want to celebrate that these amazing things have happened but you can’t celebrate all the time.

“I’ve been completely off the booze for three weeks now. I never want to make promises but being sober is something I’m interested in. When I don’t drink and I’m not smoking cigarettes, when I’m completely clean, I feel so focused and happy.” 

Sam also opened up about his releastionship with 13 Reasons Why star Brandon Flynn, who he began dating last year.

“I am having a really beautiful time right now. Just like any relationship, it’s important to have someone who understands your life”, Smith said.

“We are opposites but also similar in many ways and it is nice to have someone who understands – especially with the travelling. It’s great, we are young and it’s good to travel.”