well known for frequently saying, “don’t touch me.”Everyone was shocked when Howie Mandel gave Reba McEntire a strong hug on The Voice stage in September 2023.
The comedian, who has a terrible fear of germs, gave in to his excitement and could not resist the country music star’s attraction.
When Mandel is in the spotlight, he seems happy and optimistic, but when he is not, he admits that he is a “scared” man who would like to remain “in the fetal position.”
Moreover, he recently revealed how he manages the OCD that drives him to “absolute hell” in a shocking disclosure.Continue reading to learn more!
The tragedy of the global epidemic unleashed many people’s inner germaphobe, increasing their awareness of the risks of contamination.
Many people’s fear of germs subsided after a few years, but for others, it never goes away and continues to be paralyzing.
Howie Mandel, a man who has struggled with severe anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) since he was a young child, states that he finds it impossible to go a day in his life without worrying that we could not survive. In an interview with People, the 68-year-old TV personality stated that the pandemic was very distressing, adding, “But the comfort I would get would be the fact that everybody around me was okay.” Holding on is a wise decision. But throughout the pandemic, all was not well in the world. It was the worst, to boot.
According to the Mayo Clinic, OCD is characterized as a “pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears known as obsessions.” You repeat things or participate in obsessive behaviors as a result of these obsessions. These obsessions and compulsions are quite upsetting and get in the way of daily responsibilities.
The Canadian-born comic exclaims, “I’m in a bad dream.” I make an effort to center myself. “My wife Terry and their three children, Riley, Jackie, and Alex, who were married in 1980, make up a great family,” says Mandel.I love what I do, but occasionally I go through really dark times that I can never get over.
Laughter is the best medicine.
Mandel, who had his breakthrough in 1982 with the hospital drama St. Elsewhere, claims that humor helps him get through the tough days.
“I cope with humor,” the speaker said. If I am not laughing, I am sobbing. I haven’t been open and honest enough about how bad things really get.
Mandel adds, “I’m most comfortable on stage,” and that he fights off OCD’s attraction with humor. Furthermore, it bothers me when, when I have nothing to do, I withdraw inside of myself.
Mandel always manages to find time for projects, adding his unparalleled sense of comedy to each one. In addition to serving as a judge on the America’s Got Talent (AGT) series, he presents a number of events.
Excessively medicated
During their 2022 talk show interview, he confided about Kelly Clarkson about his mental health issues.
“I’m neurotic and have OCD.People assume that just because I’m out and about, I’m enjoying myself and having fun.It scares me. “I like to go home and just live in the fetal position,” he added to the host.
Looking shocked by Mandel’s shadow character, Clarkson shot back, “It’s so funny to me, because every time I’m around you, even seeing you out of work…you’re so the opposite of what I would think.”
“I know, I’m such a joy, I’m a light, I’m an energy, and I’m stunning,” Mandel laughed. “..To tell the truth, I take a lot of medicine.
putting an embrace on Reba
That prescription may have made him excited to see Reba McEntire on The Voice.
The show’s panelist Mandel sprang out of the crowd and called her name. Then he rushed up to say, “We’re right next door shooting the AGT finale,” to the specialist in country music. Would you kindly sign this for me?
Following McEntire’s signature on his “I [heart] Reba” shirt, Mandel unexpectedly embraced the audience tightly.
“You don’t see that every day,” host Carson Daly said of the man who typically shies away from personal contact.
Mandel says, “People notice discrepancies, particularly in the media,” acknowledging his confusing behavior.”Oh, he hugged someone,” or “He shook someone’s hand.” I’m able to shake hands with you. I would then assume that I hadn’t cleaned it completely. And I used to go around in a circle and wash my hands for hours on end.
With a purpose to carry on the conversation on mental health, he continues, “I understand the funny in that.” However, that doesn’t make it any less painfully horrible. Furthermore, I don’t want to defend my emotional health. My only goal is to continue it.
Mandel’s Covid-19 was mild in 2022 because he was “boosted” and “vaccinated,” acting as a reminder that being terrified of becoming sick is not enough to keep you safe.
What are your thoughts on Howie Mandel’s openness about his mental health? Please tell us about your experience and share your thoughts with us so that we can have a conversation!
