Chris Rock, 61, has candidly discussed his mental health and the role therapy plays in addressing his insecurities. In an interview with The New York Times, published on October 3, 2026, he revealed that his therapeutic work focuses on combating feelings of inadequacy and embracing the idea that "you’re enough."
Why it matters: Rock's openness about therapy shows the value of mental health awareness, especially among public figures. His reflections resonate with many who struggle with self-esteem issues.
Rock has been engaging in therapy for several years, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
He believes that therapy helps him manage feelings of insecurity and promotes a healthier self-image.
His insights may encourage others to seek help for similar challenges, showing that even successful individuals face mental health struggles.
Driving the news: In the interview, Rock emphasized that he does not feel insecure about his status in the entertainment industry. Instead, he sometimes feels anxious when comparing himself to peers like Adam Sandler and Rick Rubin, who he perceives as working harder.
"Occasionally, I’ll meet people that are obviously working harder than me and that’ll make me feel insecure," Rock said.
He also noted that he feels some insecurity when he sees others excelling in parenting, stating, "I think I’m a good dad."
Rock shares two daughters, Lola, 24, and Zahra, 22, with ex-wife Malaak Compton-Rock.
The big picture: Rock believes that self-esteem struggles are common among artists. He described the duality of being an artist as possessing both an inflated ego and an inferiority complex.
“All artists have self-esteem questions, especially the good ones. An artist is an egomaniac with an inferiority complex,” he explained.
Rock admitted that even the legendary Eddie Murphy can trigger feelings of insecurity in him.
He stated, "In the presence of Eddie Murphy, I can get a little insecure." This highlights the competitive nature of the entertainment industry.
What they're saying: Rock's insights into therapy and personal growth resonate with many fans and fellow artists alike. His willingness to share his vulnerabilities serves as a reminder that mental health conversations are necessary.
By discussing his therapy experiences, Rock normalizes seeking help for mental health issues, encouraging others to prioritize their well-being.
His reflections might inspire fellow comedians and artists to confront their insecurities openly.
Fans appreciate Rock's authenticity, with many expressing support for his mental health advocacy.
State of play: Rock is also preparing for his return to directing after a lengthy hiatus. He last directed in 2014 with Top Five, and it took him 12 years to feel ready to take the reins again.
Rock attributed this delay to various life events, including the pandemic and his divorce from Malaak Compton-Rock in 2016 after two decades of marriage.
He remarked, "Life, COVID, I got divorced, which meant I had to make real money. Maybe I had some other scripts that the market didn’t respond to."
Rock used the time during the pandemic to evaluate his life choices and career path.
By the numbers: Rock's return to directing comes with a new film titled Misty Green, where he wrote, directed, and starred opposite Rosalind Eleazar.
It marks his first directorial project since Top Five, which was released in 2014.
Rock has shared that he only met Eleazar about a month before filming began, emphasizing her strong commitment to the character.
"Put it this way: I only met Rosalind about a month ago. For the months we were shooting, there was only Misty," he said.
What's next: As Rock continues to navigate his career and personal life, his focus remains on growth and empathy.
The comedian expressed that therapy has made him a more empathetic person, which he believes is important for his work.
He noted, "Part of all this therapy is developing empathy and really being able to get inside of another character."
His daughters, now adults, have also played a role in shaping his perspective, providing insights he might not have otherwise considered.