In a candid revelation, Chris McKenna, known for his role in the soap opera General Hospital, has publicly shared his diagnosis of bipolar disorder during an appearance on the podcast “State of Mind with Maurice Benard.” The 48-year-old actor discussed his struggles with mental health, admitting that he experienced a breakdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I have bipolar disorder… This is the first time I’m ever talking about it publicly,” McKenna stated on December 15, 2023.
He elaborated on the impact of this condition, revealing that he had lived with undiagnosed bipolar disorder for much of his life. “I had my first breakdown when I was a teenager and then lived my whole life with this disorder undiagnosed,” he explained, noting that the onset of the pandemic marked a turning point in his mental health journey. McKenna described the culmination of his experiences, stating, “I experienced heavy psychothermia… culminating in COVID, when I had my first dangerous depression since a teenager, followed by a manic psychotic episode that required hospitalization.”
Following this episode, McKenna received his diagnosis and began treatment with medication, specifically lithium. “That’s where I am today,” he said, expressing a sense of stability after a long and challenging journey.
Childhood Acting and Career Challenges
In the same interview, McKenna reflected on his early start in acting, which began at the age of seven. He gained significant attention for his role in One Life to Live at just twelve years old, where he faced the pressures of adult storylines despite being only fifteen himself. “They were trying to do adult storylines with me… I was 6’3” playing 18, but I was only 15,” he recalled, highlighting the challenges of growing up in the spotlight.
His experiences as a child actor shaped his perspective on life and helped him understand the complexities associated with fame and mental health.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
According to the Mayo Clinic, bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings, including manic and depressive episodes. These fluctuations can manifest in various ways, with symptoms differing from person to person. The condition often begins in adolescence or early adulthood, with the potential for varied symptoms over time.
The discussion around mental health in the entertainment industry has gained momentum, with Benard himself being open about his struggles since his public disclosure of his bipolar diagnosis in 2000. In an April 2020 interview with People, he explained the stigma he faced in the industry, stating, “I didn’t talk about it because an acting coach told me that if I said I was bipolar or mentally ill, I wouldn’t get cast.” His memoir, Nothing General About It, details his experiences, including anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and manic episodes.
Both McKenna and Benard’s openness is part of a broader conversation about mental health, emphasizing the importance of awareness and support for individuals facing similar challenges.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, resources are available. In the United States, individuals can call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for support.
