Kanye West Apologizes for Bipolar-Fueled Behavior

Rapper Ye opens up about his struggles with bipolar disorder and the impact on his life.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 1:55pm

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Kanye West, who now goes by Ye, has issued a public apology for his erratic and alarming behavior in recent years, which he attributes to his bipolar disorder. The 48-year-old rapper says he "lost touch with reality" during a four-month-long manic episode in 2025 that "destroyed" his life. Ye explains that his bipolar disorder, which he believes stems from brain damage from a car crash 25 years ago, causes him to feel "powerful, certain, unstoppable" during manic episodes, but also "blind" to reality. He says he has found comfort in connecting with others who share similar experiences through online forums, and is now seeking help through medication, therapy, exercise, and clean living to manage his condition.

Why it matters

Kanye West's openness about his bipolar disorder sheds light on the challenges of living with this complex mental health condition, which can lead to extreme mood swings and impulsive behavior. His story highlights the importance of seeking professional treatment and support, even for high-profile individuals, and the need for greater understanding and compassion around mental illness.

The details

In his open letter, Ye explains that his bipolar disorder caused him to "say and do things" that he deeply regrets, including public outbursts that led to accusations of antisemitism. He clarifies that he is not a "Nazi" or "Antisemite" and apologizes to the Black community for "letting them down." Ye says he hit "rock bottom" a few months ago, and his wife encouraged him to finally get help. He is now taking medication, undergoing therapy, exercising, and making lifestyle changes to manage his condition.

  • Ye was diagnosed with bipolar disorder several years ago.
  • In early 2025, Ye experienced a four-month-long manic episode.
  • Ye hit "rock bottom" a few months ago and sought help.

The players

Kanye West (Ye)

A 48-year-old rapper and songwriter who has been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder.

Kim Kardashian

Ye's ex-wife, who has previously shared her perspective on his mental health challenges.

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What they’re saying

“In early 2025, I fell into a four-month-long manic episode of psychotic, paranoid and impulsive behaviour that destroyed my life.”

— Kanye West (Ye), Rapper (thehealthsite.com)

“Those that understand mental illness or even compulsive behaviour know that the family is powerless unless the member is a minor.”

— Kim Kardashian, Ye's ex-wife (thehealthsite.com)

What’s next

Ye says he is currently taking a combination of medication, therapy, exercise, and clean living to manage his bipolar disorder and regain a sense of clarity and stability in his life.

The takeaway

Kanye West's openness about his bipolar disorder serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking professional help and support, even for high-profile individuals, and the need for greater understanding and compassion around mental health challenges.