The end of last year was a rough time for Lady Gaga, as she reveals to Harper Bazaar, she suffered from depression.

“I became very depressed at the end of 2013. I was exhausted fighting people off. I couldn’t even feel my own heartbeat. I was angry, cynical and had this deep sadness like an anchor dragging everywhere I go,” said the “Artpop” singer.

The revealing interview for Harper Bazaar’s March issue shed a different light on the pop singer, who often hide behind intricate and eye-catching attire.

The 27-year-old musician decided at the top of this year to take back her happiness. “I learned that my sadness never destroyed what was great about me. You just have to go back to that greatness, find that one little light that’s left. I’m lucky I found one little glimmer stored away,” she said.

The singer also admitted that times have changed from when she first entered the game in 2008, including hanger-ons in her circle.

“Five years ago, when I spotted someone with a hidden agenda, I allowed them to stay around me,” she admitted. “I didn’t want to believe it. I thought if I ignored it, then they would eventually see me again — that I’m a human being and not a doll. But it doesn’t work that way. I speak up now. I realized that it’s my own fault that people take advantage.”

Gaga now recognizes her worth and knows “she deserves better.”

-Chika Dunu