Doja Cat Opens Up About Past Cocaine Use, Alcohol Struggles and Mental Health
Doja Cat is offering fans a candid look at some of the most difficult chapters of her life.
In a series of TikTok videos shared on August 31, the Grammy-winning artist whose real name is Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini spoke openly about her past cocaine use, struggles with alcohol, mental health challenges and the intense criticism she often faces online.
The singer revealed that she battled cocaine use approximately eight years ago, describing it as a painful period in her life. However, she made it clear that she has moved beyond that experience and is now focused on making healthier choices.
Doja Cat also discussed her complicated relationship with alcohol. Although she said she never considered herself an alcoholic, she explained that drinking negatively affected her mental health and made it harder to cope with online criticism. She warned her followers about the dangers of combining alcohol with drugs, saying the combination can intensify destructive thoughts and emotions.
The “Paint the Town Red” artist also addressed accusations that she is “demonic” or hateful toward herself. She pushed back against those claims, suggesting that much of the criticism comes from people misunderstanding her identity, personality and personal struggles.
Reflecting on her childhood, Doja Cat spoke about growing up biracial in a predominantly white neighborhood and how that experience affected her self-image. She acknowledged that she once struggled with accepting herself but said she has gradually become more comfortable with who she is.
Her comments come as part of a broader conversation about mental health and self-acceptance. Earlier this year, Doja Cat also discussed her experience with borderline personality disorder, continuing her willingness to speak publicly about challenges that many people keep private.
By sharing her story, Doja Cat said she hoped to correct misconceptions about her while also warning others about the dangers of substance abuse and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Despite knowing that many people online dislike her, she emphasized that her honesty could still help someone facing similar struggles.
Her candid message serves as a reminder that public figures can experience deeply personal battles behind the scenes and that recovery, self-understanding and growth are ongoing journeys.