Kanye West's Journey with Mental Health: Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Kanye West, known as Ye, has openly discussed his struggles with mental health, particularly his diagnosis of bipolar type-1 disorder. In 2018, he revealed his diagnosis through his album "Ye, " with the cover art reading, "I hate being Bi-Polar, it's awesome. " This revelation came after he was hospitalized in 2016 following a sudden concert cancellation. West's public statements and actions have often sparked controversy, leading to significant consequences, such as the loss of major partnerships. In January 2026, he publicly apologized for his past remarks, attributing them to a "four-month long manic episode of psychotic, paranoid, and impulsive behavior. " In his apology, he acknowledged the harm he caused to those closest to him, stating that he had become detached from his true self.West has spoken about the challenges of living with bipolar disorder, comparing it to having a "sprained brain. " He highlighted the stigma surrounding mental health issues, noting that people often discriminate against those with mental illnesses. He also discussed the paranoia that comes with manic episodes, where everything feels like a conspiracy and trust becomes difficult. Despite facing skepticism from online trolls who doubted his diagnosis, West remained steadfast in his advocacy. He emphasized that being labeled as "crazy" would not silence him. In 2025, West revealed he had been diagnosed with a form of autism, adding another layer to his mental health journey. He described the impact of manic episodes, explaining that during these times, he felt ill and detached from reality. In his WSJ letter, he admitted to regretting many of his actions and promised to take responsibility through medication, therapy, exercise, and a healthier lifestyle.