Zayn Malik is one of the many singers out there who isn’t afraid of opening up with his fans about his daily struggles with anxiety and other illnesses he’s dealt with, like the eating disorder he discussed in his autobiography published last year.

The “Pillowtalk,” singer is extremely brave for opening up about his battles and in a new interview with The Sunday Times, Zayn revealed why he chooses to share as much as he does with fans in and out of music.

“I think there’s a strength in expressing emotion. If you were a guy, you used to have to be really masculine, but now expressing emotion is accepted and respected,” he said.

Expressing himself and everything he’s dealt with in the past has also helped the Bradford boy cope with and ultimately overcome his eating disorder. He explained, “People saw strength in that, and they didn’t seem to expect it from a guy, but they expect it from a female, which to me is crazy. We’re all human. People are often afraid to admit difficulties, but I don’t believe that there should be a struggle with anything that’s the truth.”

When it comes to his anxiety, Zayn explained that it is no longer an issue and part of that has to do with the strong management team he has behind him. “I now have no problem with anxiety. It was something I was dealing with in the band,” he said.

Also for those who are eagerly anticipating the, “Like I Would,” singer’s follow-up album, the wait may not be much longer as he confirms he’s hard at work on it. “They always say the second album is difficult, but so far I’m really happy with this one. There are real signs of growth and development. Hopefully, as a human being, I’m growing too, in my knowledge and perception,” he continued to say.

We have to applaud Zayn for being brave enough to share with his fans the issues that have affected him in the past, and bringing awareness to them. We’re glad he’s in a great place professionally and personally.

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