Noah Kahan Recalls Having ‘Pretty Severe Episode’ of Intrusive Thoughts During ‘Infamous Joshua Tree OCD Meltdown’

Noah Kahan has recently shared his personal journey with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and its impact on his creativity while working on his latest album, *The Great Divide*. The singer-songwriter, known for his hit “Stick Season,” revealed these insights during a cover interview with *Rolling Stone*.

Reflecting on the album’s creation process, Kahan discussed a problematic trip to Joshua Tree in March 2025, which he described as a significant turning point in his mental health journey. He had hoped the picturesque desert setting would inspire him and provide a fresh perspective but instead faced an intense episode characterised by intrusive thoughts. “Joshua Tree was horrible,” Kahan admitted. “I can’t even tell you how not better I felt after going there.”

Initial excitement turned to mental distress as Kahan struggled to write and grappled with overwhelming, irrational thoughts. “I was convinced something was happening that was not happening, or that I had said something that I just didn’t say,” he explained, illustrating the torment he experienced. This episode prompted Kahan to seek therapy, ultimately leading to his unexpected diagnosis of OCD, which he had previously misunderstood.

“I was under the influence of the idea that OCD was like, ‘I need to wash my hands a hundred times,’” he remarked, adding that his experiences revealed the disorder had deeper roots than he had realised. Connecting past experiences and rituals to his diagnosis, Kahan recognised the significant, often debilitating role that OCD played in his life.

Following his return from Joshua Tree, Kahan began treatment, which included medication. His initial experiences with antidepressants were not entirely positive—he noted that while he and Prozac did not get along, his relationship with Lexapro was markedly better. “I fell in love with Lexapro,” he said, acknowledging the significant positive impact it had on his mental well-being.

By the time *The Great Divide* was released on April 24, Kahan felt revitalised and creatively liberated. “I felt more creative than ever before,” he noted, attributing much of this resurgence to his improved mental health. His album debuted at the top of the Billboard 200, marking a significant achievement in his career.

Kahan’s collaborator, Gabe Simon, expressed admiration for his growth. He indicated that Kahan is currently in a remarkably healthy mental state, describing the challenges he has faced as “superpowers” that enable him to connect with others through his music. “Not that he’s perfect, but because he’s so absolutely messed up in many ways,” Simon said, shedding light on the complexity of Kahan’s artistry.

Throughout the interview, Kahan’s openness concerning his mental health struggles serves as a reminder of the ongoing conversation surrounding wellness in the creative industry. His story resonates with many who face similar challenges, emphasising the importance of seeking help and the potential for recovery.

For those struggling with mental health issues, support is available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers resources for anyone in need, ensuring that no one has to navigate their journey alone.