Howie Mandel, known for his humor and lively persona on stage and TV, recently revealed an honest and emotional look at his lifelong struggle with mental health during an interview on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Despite his fame and the joy he brings to audiences, Mandel has battled anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) for most of his life, and fame has only complicated these issues.

The Weight of Fame and Private Struggles

Many might assume that Mandel’s success would bring peace of mind, but the opposite has proven true. The comedian admitted that his celebrity status has often made things harder. The expectation to appear happy and maintain a public image has added pressure to his already heavy burden. “From the outside, I might look happy, but when I’m alone at home, it’s different,” Mandel confessed, painting a picture of the dual reality he faces daily.

A Lifelong Battle

Mandel’s struggles with anxiety and OCD began in childhood, a time when he often felt isolated and misunderstood. Labeled “strange” by peers and unable to form lasting friendships, young Howie learned to cope on his own, a pattern that would follow him for years. Comedy became his escape, a way to make sense of his emotions and redirect his energy. “I get paid to be strange,” he jokes now, but the truth behind that statement holds decades of pain and perseverance.

Surviving the Pandemic’s Toll

The COVID-19 pandemic was particularly difficult for Mandel, as it magnified the fears and anxiety he had long carried. “I would wake up thinking, ‘We could die,’” he said, describing the intense worry that clouded those months. The stress of a world on edge, combined with his pre-existing anxieties, made for a challenging period where maintaining mental stability was more difficult than ever.

Coming Forward and Breaking the Silence

For years, Mandel kept his struggles hidden, fearing judgment and damage to his career. It wasn’t until 2006 that he opened up publicly, acknowledging his condition and seeking to break the stigma surrounding mental health. He described how shame and fear of being labeled “unstable” kept him silent for too long. But by speaking out, Mandel hoped to help others realize they are not alone.

Coping Through Comedy

Like many comedians, Mandel uses humor as a lifeline. Performing allows him moments of relief where he feels in control and at ease. “Comedy saved me,” he admitted, explaining how being on stage is where he feels most at peace. However, despite his professional success and his ability to make others laugh, he acknowledges that dark periods still come, and he continues to work through them.

A Mission to Break the Stigma

Mandel’s decision to talk openly about his mental health is part of his mission to combat the stigma that surrounds it. He wants people to know that it’s okay to not be okay, and that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. “Even though it’s hard, I want to keep talking about it,” he said, hoping that sharing his experiences will encourage others to seek support and understanding.

Moving Forward with Hope

Howie Mandel knows that managing his mental health will be an ongoing journey, but he remains hopeful. He focuses on appreciating the moments when life isn’t clouded by darkness and aims to keep spreading awareness about mental health. His story is a powerful reminder that beneath the surface, even those who seem to have it all may be fighting battles unseen.

Mandel’s courage in sharing his truth is an inspiration, urging others to foster empathy, understanding, and an open dialogue about mental health. Even in the face of struggles, Mandel is proof that hope and resilience can shine through.