General Hospital’s Maurice Benard Shares His Battle with Bipolar Disorder
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In a recent episode of his State of Mind podcast, ‘General Hospital’ actor Maurice Benard, aged 62, delved into his struggles with mental Illness. Benard, who portrays Sonny Corinthos on the long-running soap opera, discussed why he feels a sense of achievement in overcoming challenges related to bipolar disorder. He expressed, “When I talk to people about what I’ve gone through, a lot of people might not understand the pain we feel inside, and the thoughts are un-fricking-bearable.”
Benard acknowledged the misconceptions surrounding mental health issues, emphasising the difficulty of enduring each day with such intense emotions. He articulated, “You just feel like there’s no way… And the fact that we do is incredible. You should feel very proud of yourself. I can honestly say, I feel proud of myself that I can go through this when it’s that tough.” His openness about his struggles mirrors his previous discussions regarding depression and bipolar disorder diagnosis at the age of 22.
Having shared his journey in a 2020 interview with PEOPLE and in his memoir, ‘Nothing General About It,’ Benard has actively advocated for mental health awareness. He has lent his voice to support organisations like the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. During the podcast with Genie Francis and Jonathan Frakes, the veteran soap opera star highlighted the importance of resilience and survival in battling mental health issues.
In a heartfelt interaction during the podcast, Genie Francis opened up about her own battles with anxiety. She shared how her spouse’s unwavering support has been instrumental in navigating her tough moments. Francis revealed, “When I go down the rabbit hole… he will never leave me alone. When it lifts, I can finally stand up straight, I can breathe. And I look at him and say, ‘Thank you for not leaving me alone.’”
The candid conversation with Francis and Frakes, which premiered on Nov. 16, showcased the vulnerability and strength exhibited by individuals facing mental health challenges. Benard’s commitment to destigmatise mental illness and provide insights into his personal struggles has been commendable. His openness serves as a source of inspiration for many grappling with similar issues.
In addition to his advocacy work, Benard has dispelled rumours about his departure from ‘General Hospital.’ Addressing speculation regarding his future on the show during a podcast, he clarified, “No, I’m not leaving.” Affirming his commitment to the series, Benard assured fans that he plans to honour his contract while hinting at retirement in the future. As the actor continues to captivate audiences with his portrayal of Sonny Corinthos, his resilience in overcoming personal battles remains a testament to his strength.
As ‘General Hospital’ continues to captivate viewers with its engaging storylines, Benard’s portrayal of Sonny Corinthos resonates with fans worldwide. His willingness to share his journey with bipolar disorder serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for those facing similar challenges. Through his advocacy efforts and candid discussions, Benard has established himself as a champion for mental health awareness within the entertainment industry.
The enduring appeal of ‘General Hospital’ coupled with Benard’s heartfelt revelations reinforces the importance of destigmatising mental health discussions. As audiences witness the complexities of Sonny Corinthos’ character on screen, they are also privy to the resilience and courage demonstrated by the actor behind the role. Benard’s unwavering commitment to raising awareness and advocating for mental health issues further cements his status as a dedicated advocate and inspirational figure within the industry.