Celine Dion reveals she sometimes relied on high-dose Valium to cope with severe health struggles

The ‘My Heart Will Go On’ singer has opened up about the debilitating symptoms of stiff-person syndrome as she prepares for her long-awaited return to live performances

Celine Dion has opened up about the devastating impact stiff-person syndrome has had on her life, revealing that there were times when her pain became so severe that she could barely walk and needed a high dose of Valium simply to function.

The Grammy-winning singer was diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome, a rare neurological condition, in 2022 after years of experiencing unexplained symptoms. The condition eventually forced her to step away from touring and dramatically change the way she worked.

Now, as she prepares to return to the stage in Paris, Dion has spoken candidly about the physical challenges she has faced and the extensive treatment and rehabilitation she has undergone.

In a new interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Dion described periods when her condition left her in debilitating pain. She said that on some days she needed medication to help her manage her symptoms and get through normal activities.

Stiff-person syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that can cause severe muscle stiffness, spasms and painful episodes. Symptoms can sometimes be triggered by sudden movement, physical contact, noise or emotional stress.

The condition is estimated to affect around one person in a million, making it extremely uncommon. Women are more frequently affected than men.

For Dion, the symptoms became increasingly disruptive to her life and career.

“It is a progressive condition,” the singer said. “I don’t like to say ‘disease.’”

Her diagnosis came after years of worsening symptoms. Once doctors identified stiff-person syndrome as the cause, Dion began an intensive treatment and rehabilitation programme involving medication, physical therapy, vocal therapy and immunotherapy.

The singer has previously spoken about the emotional toll of losing the ability to perform in the way she once did. For decades, live music had been at the centre of her career, with her powerful voice and elaborate concerts attracting audiences around the world.

Her health problems eventually forced her to cancel and postpone performances, leaving fans uncertain about whether she would ever be able to return to the stage.

Dion offered an emotional glimpse into her experience in the 2024 documentary I Am: Celine Dion, which followed her life as she attempted to manage the condition while holding on to her connection with music.

Despite the difficulties, she has continued working towards a return to live performance.

In March, Dion announced that she would return to the stage in Paris, describing the opportunity as a birthday gift to herself.

“This year, I’m getting the best birthday gift of my life,” she told fans in a message announcing her return. “I’m getting the chance to see you, to perform for you.”

Her upcoming Paris residency is expected to mark her first extended series of full-length concerts in years.

The performances will take place at the Plenitude Arena, formerly known as Paris La Défense Arena. The venue is one of Europe's largest indoor music arenas, providing Dion with a substantial stage for her long-awaited comeback.

The initial shows generated significant demand, leading to additional performances being planned for 2027.

For Dion, the return is not simply about resuming a career. It represents an opportunity to reconnect with the audience she has missed during years away from regular touring.

“It’s been so long,” she said. “I would like to offer my fans something to show how I’ve missed them.”

Dion's comeback follows several important appearances during her recovery.

In July 2024, she performed at the Paris Olympic Games, delivering a powerful rendition of “Hymne à l’amour” during the opening ceremony. The performance marked a major moment in her return to the public stage.

She also performed at the 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab event later that year, demonstrating that she was gradually regaining confidence in her ability to perform.

However, a full concert residency presents a far greater physical challenge.

A typical performance requires hours of preparation, rehearsals, movement and vocal work. For an artist living with a neurological condition that can cause muscle stiffness and spasms, maintaining that level of physical activity can be particularly demanding.

Dion has therefore continued with her rehabilitation as she prepares for the Paris shows.

Her story has also brought increased public attention to stiff-person syndrome, a condition that remains unfamiliar to many people. By speaking openly about her diagnosis, treatment and daily struggles, Dion has helped raise awareness of an illness that can be difficult to diagnose and manage.

Although her future performances will be closely watched by fans around the world, Dion appears determined to approach her return carefully and on her own terms.

After years of uncertainty, cancelled shows and intense rehabilitation, the singer is once again preparing to stand before a live audience.

For the woman behind one of the world's most recognisable voices, the upcoming Paris residency represents more than a comeback. It is a personal milestone after an extraordinarily difficult period in her life.

Sources

• The Independent, August 19, 2026.
• Harper’s Bazaar, interview with Celine Dion discussing stiff-person syndrome, treatment and recovery, August 2026.
• Celine Dion's official public statements regarding her return to the stage.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Medication, including Valium or diazepam, should only be used under the direction of a qualified healthcare professional.