Additional Coverage:
- Perez Hilton has long road to recovery, had struggled with depression before self-harm, sister says (nbcnews.com)
Perez Hilton’s sister, Barbara Lavandeira, has shared a heartfelt account of the harrowing night her brother faced a severe mental health crisis. In her first public interview, she detailed the events of August 4, describing it as one of the darkest days her family has endured.
Lavandeira recounted how she discovered Hilton, whose real name is Mario Lavandeira, during a livestream self-harm incident at his Miami home. Noticing his locked bedroom door and a lack of response, she ultimately entered and found him injured and holding a box cutter. “What I can say with certainty is that I didn’t recognize my brother when I looked at him,” she said, describing the shock of the moment.
After ensuring the safety of her daughter and Hilton’s three children by sending them away with a friend, she stayed with her brother until emergency responders arrived. Hilton was hospitalized following the incident.
Barbara also revealed that Hilton had been battling severe depression, having voluntarily admitted himself for treatment shortly before the crisis. This came after a particularly difficult year marked by serious health struggles, including hospitalization for sepsis and abdominal surgery earlier in 2023.
In the weeks before August 4, Hilton had openly discussed his feelings of emptiness and hopelessness with his family, acknowledging the need for psychiatric care. Despite initial progress-attending therapy sessions and planning to begin an intensive outpatient program-he continued to struggle.
Since moving back to Miami from Las Vegas to be closer to family, Hilton experienced doubts and anxiety about the move, which contributed to his mental health challenges. He was prescribed a low dose of antidepressants and was under professional care.
Lavandeira emphasized that although her brother’s condition seemed to improve, the day of the incident was particularly difficult, and he remains hospitalized. The family is focusing on his physical and mental recovery, which will require significant time and support. She also addressed misinformation circulating about the situation, stating her intention to share only what she personally witnessed.
Hilton’s sister highlighted the love his children have for him and the family’s commitment to providing a stable and supportive environment for them. She urged compassion, reminding the public that her brother is not the same person who gained fame as a gossip blogger years ago and condemned judgmental attitudes toward his struggles.
The family’s message is clear: healing is underway, and they ask for privacy and understanding as Hilton works toward recovery.
If you or someone you know is facing emotional distress, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988, or by visiting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline online.