Just weeks before Liam Payne's untimely death in October, the One Direction star was urged by his psychiatrist to seek a more intensive level of treatment than she could provide. A letter filed in an Argentine court and obtained by TMZ sheds light on the singer's struggles with mental health and addiction in the lead-up to his passing.
In September 2024, Payne's psychiatrist made the difficult decision to discontinue her care for him, citing the need for a higher standard of treatment. She explained her choice in the letter, saying it followed "careful consideration and assessment" of his mental health needs.
The psychiatrist emphasized the importance of adhering to a treatment plan that included taking medications as prescribed, avoiding heavy alcohol use while medicated, and attending weekly therapy sessions. She also recommended regular check-ins with a primary care doctor and further medical evaluations.
A significant part of her advice centered on processing his "depression and trauma" with a therapist, which she described as "vital for managing these issues." To help him transition, the psychiatrist provided Liam with a list of doctors and rehabilitation centers that could better assist him.
In her closing remarks, she expressed hope for his recovery.
"Thank you for your understanding, and I wish you the very best in your continued journey toward mental health and well-being," she stated.
Payne's struggles with sobriety
Payne had been candid about his battles with addiction and mental health. In July 2023, he celebrated six months of sobriety following a 100-day stint in rehab. The singer shared his progress in a heartfelt YouTube video, saying: "I definitely don't need those things anymore. The party's over."
Despite his resolve, Payne experienced a relapse the following year, leading to a devastating series of events. On October 19, 2024, the 31-year-old tragically fell from the third-floor balcony of his hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.