In a candid revelation, Kanye West, now legally known as Ye, announced that he has been diagnosed with autism, shedding light on his past behaviors and creative processes. This disclosure came during an interview on Justin Laboy’s podcast, “The Download,” where Ye discussed his mental health journey and the impact of his diagnosis on his life and work.
From Bipolar Misdiagnosis to Autism Diagnosis
Ye shared that he was initially diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2016 following a psychiatric hospitalization. However, his wife, Bianca Censori, questioned this diagnosis, observing that his behavior didn’t align with typical bipolar symptoms. Encouraged by her, Ye sought a second opinion, leading to a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) .
“My wife took me because she said, ‘Something about your personality doesn’t feel like it’s bipolar, I’ve seen bipolar before,’” Ye explained during the podcast. He added that the new diagnosis helped him understand his past actions, including his support for Donald Trump and his defiance of public expectations
Embracing the Diagnosis and Its Implications
Ye expressed relief at the new diagnosis, stating that it provided clarity on his behaviors and creative processes. He emphasized that he no longer takes medication, as autism is not typically treated with drugs, and he prefers to manage his mental health episodes through self-awareness and coping strategies
“A lot of what was sending me into the episodes… the constant feeling of not being in control spun me out of control,” Ye reflected. He acknowledged that he now recognizes the signs of an impending episode and takes precautions to manage them effectively .
Upcoming Album: “Bully”
In addition to discussing his diagnosis, Ye announced the release of his upcoming album titled “Bully,” set to debut on June 15, his daughter North West’s birthday. He mentioned that the album draws inspiration from his son, Saint, and reflects his personal experiences and growth
Public and Media Reactions
Ye’s announcement has sparked a range of reactions from the public and media. While some commend his openness and the clarity it brings to his past behaviors, others question the timing and sincerity of the disclosure, especially in light of his controversial statements and actions in recent years .
Despite the mixed reactions, Ye’s revelation contributes to the ongoing conversation about mental health, neurodiversity, and the importance of accurate diagnoses. It also highlights the role of personal relationships in recognizing and addressing mental health concerns.
