Henry Winkler Explains Why He Decided to Start Going to Therapy at 70 

Henry Winkler, the acclaimed 80-year-old actor best known for his role in “Happy Days,” has recently shared insights into his mental health journey in a candid interview on the show *In Depth with Graham Bensinger*. Winkler revealed that his experience with therapy began around ten years ago when he felt as though he was merely “treading water” in his life.

During the interview aired on September 9, Winkler recalled feeling overwhelmed and unable to manage his thoughts or emotions, stating, “About 10 years ago, maybe 12 years ago, I was pretty good at either figuring things out… and I just couldn’t do it anymore.” The Emmy-winning actor acknowledged that before he sought help, things were “going sideways” in his life, which ultimately led him to pursue therapy.

Winkler openly admitted that he had difficulty letting others in, including his wife, Stacey Weitzman. He reflected on her previous comments, noting, “I didn’t let anybody in.” This lack of openness created a barrier that affected both his personal relationships and his mental well-being. He recounted a time when he found it challenging to confront the feelings and issues he had been harbouring, remarking, “I needed to now empty myself out of all of the rancid garbage I had allowed to infiltrate.”

The actor’s journey through therapy has been transformative. His therapist and his daughter, Zoe, have commented on the profound changes they have witnessed in Winkler, attributing to him newfound confidence, calmness, and a greater sense of self-respect. Winkler himself confirmed these observations, noting that he has learned the importance of listening to others without immediately feeling compelled to assert his own perspective unless solicited.

When asked by Bensinger about the reasons he had previously struggled with these issues, Winkler candidly responded, “Because I was out of balance. I was out of my f—ing mind.” He emphasised that while he is still on his journey to mental well-being, he feels he is making progress, stating, “I’m getting there.”

Moreover, Winkler used a vivid metaphor to describe his former mental state, comparing himself to “Swiss cheese,” filled with holes that left him constantly anxious. He expressed his desire to transform into “a chunk of cheddar, not a hole in sight,” illustrating his aspiration for a more stable mental state.

Engaging in therapy has allowed Winkler to connect with deeper aspects of himself, particularly as an artist. He explained that this connection has had a significant impact on his work, notably in his acclaimed role as Gene Cousineau in the HBO series *Barry*. “I could not have done *Barry* if I did not have therapy,” he asserted, underscoring the relationship between his mental health and his creative output.

Looking ahead, Winkler remains active in the entertainment industry. He is set to feature in *Rolling Loud: The Movie*, which is scheduled for release on October 2, and has also made a cameo appearance in *Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass*, a film that premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.

Henry Winkler’s openness about his mental health challenges and the benefits of therapy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking help and addressing one’s emotional well-being. His journey may resonate with many, as he continues to navigate life with greater awareness and strength.