Howie Mandel, the 70-year-old comedian and judge on America’s Got Talent, recently opened up about his harrowing mental health struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic, claiming he "almost died" due to self-medication.
Why it matters: Mandel's candid revelations shine a light on the mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, highlighting the importance of seeking help and support from loved ones.
Mandel discussed his experiences during a recent episode of Hoda Kotb's Joy 101 podcast, airing on August 24, 2026.
He struggled with severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), conditions that worsened significantly during the pandemic.
The comedian's story emphasizes the necessity of addressing mental health issues, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Driving the news: Mandel revealed that his self-medication involved excessive use of sleep gummies, alcohol, and smoking.
His struggles with OCD, which he was diagnosed with in his 40s, intensified during the pandemic, making it difficult for him to cope.
As a germaphobe, Mandel found the pandemic particularly overwhelming, describing it as a time when his anxiety became unmanageable.
He admitted, "I couldn’t sleep, so I started taking gummies to go to sleep," which soon escalated into more harmful habits.
The big picture: Mandel's experiences are a stark reminder of how mental health can deteriorate under stress, particularly for those already facing challenges.
He described his attempts to escape his anxiety as "trying to make myself unconscious," highlighting the severity of his situation.
At one point, his wife, Terry Mandel, feared for his life when she could not wake him up and considered taking him to the hospital.
Mandel stated, "There were times when my wife, she couldn’t wake me up, or she thought she was going to take me to the hospital." This moment marked a turning point for him.
What they're saying: Mandel expressed deep gratitude for his wife's support and intervention during his darkest moments.
He credited Terry with saving his life through an ultimatum that urged him to seek therapy, saying, "She’s a hero because she put up with it and sent me to therapy."
Mandel emphasized the toll his mental health struggles took on their relationship, admitting, "It was hell to live with me when my OCD got bad."
His wife's unwavering support has been instrumental in his recovery, and he acknowledged her sacrifices throughout their 46-year marriage.
By the numbers: Mandel's mental health management now includes therapy and medication.
He is currently sober and relies on prescribed medication to manage his OCD and anxiety.
Mandel revealed, "I’m medicated and I have a lot of therapy," underscoring the importance of professional help in his recovery.
His proactive approach also involves staying busy to distract himself from dark thoughts, which he describes as a coping mechanism.
What's next: Mandel continues to focus on his mental health with the support of professionals.
He regularly engages in therapy and medication management, aiming to maintain stability in his life.
Mandel stresses the importance of remaining active, stating, "I take care of myself and I stay really busy and really active."
His story serves as a reminder that mental health is an ever-evolving process, requiring consistent effort and support.
As Mandel navigates his mental health challenges, he hopes to inspire others facing similar struggles to seek help and prioritize their well-being. His candid reflections highlight the importance of mental health awareness and the power of love and support in overcoming life's most challenging moments.