Joe Jonas has candidly shared his struggles with mental health during a recent episode of the ‘Hey Jonas’ podcast, which features him alongside his brothers, Nick and Kevin. The singer opened up about the emotional turmoil he faced following the lukewarm reception of his debut solo album, *Fastlife*, released in 2011. The experience not only triggered panic attacks but also marked his first encounter with therapy.
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Reflecting on *Fastlife*, Joe admitted to harbouring high expectations for the album, given the success the Jonas Brothers enjoyed during their heyday. “Everything the Jonas Brothers touched back then would be gold,” he remarked. “So, when I put something out by myself, I had this core belief that my worth was tied to its success.” The album debuted at No. 15 on the Billboard 200 chart, and its leading single, “See No More”, peaked at a modest No. 92, falling short of his aspirations.
As the reality of his album’s performance set in, Joe began experiencing panic attacks and physical discomfort. He sought medical attention several times, undergoing thorough check-ups, only to find that he was physically healthy. It was during this process that his doctor suggested he consider therapy. Initially resistant, Joe questioned, “Why would I need a therapist?” This hesitation, however, quickly shifted once he began to connect the dots about his mental health.
To cope with the stress and anxiety, Joe resorted to biking around New York City as a means of escape. “I would take my bike and go for rides all day, avoiding social media and any triggers related to the album’s performance,” he explained. Despite finding solace in these distractions, Joe recognised that he was ultimately evading the underlying issues.
It wasn’t until he sought professional help that he began to see the benefits of therapy. “I finally spoke to somebody and cried for an hour through the first question,” Joe recalled. It was a transformative experience for him and helped him realise the importance of addressing his feelings in a constructive way.
In the podcast, Joe highlighted the significance of therapy in his life beyond that initial phase. He acknowledged that, while he has room for improvement in maintaining a regular therapy schedule, the support he has received during challenging times has been invaluable. “Friends and family are great, but a professional sounding board can ask questions from a completely different perspective,” he added.
Looking ahead, Joe released his second solo album, *Music for People Who Believe in Love*, in May 2025. His willingness to discuss mental health openly aims to help others who might be grappling with similar challenges.
For those navigating mental health difficulties, such as emotional distress or substance use, immediate support is available through resources like calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org, which offers help around the clock.
Joe Jonas’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and the transformative power of therapy, particularly in an industry often defined by external expectations and pressures. Through this candid exchange, he not only sheds light on his personal experiences but also encourages conversations around mental wellness and the necessity of professional support.