Gucci Mane, the famed Atlanta rapper, is openly sharing his mental health journey with the support of his wife, Keyshia Ka’oir. Following the recent release of his second memoir “Episodes” on October 14, Gucci disclosed his diagnoses of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, shedding light on the challenges he has faced.
In a candid interview on “The Breakfast Club” on October 20, Keyshia revealed the lengths she goes to in order to protect her husband during his episodes, explaining that she often removes social media apps from his phone to help avert potential public scrutiny. “I delete Instagram. I delete everything. Even if I’ve got to change his password, I’m changing it because I don’t need the public to know he’s having an episode,” she stated.
Keyshia described her ability to recognize when Gucci is experiencing an episode, noting that subtle shifts in his behavior, such as reduced communication and changes in eating and sleeping habits, are telling signs. “He doesn’t speak to you. He wants to be left alone. He doesn’t eat. He does not sleep,” she explained.
The couple engages in a dialogue about his mental health, with Keyshia often reminding him of his condition during these tough times. “We go back and forth. ‘No, I’m not. Ain’t nothing wrong with me.’ ‘You’re not speaking to me.’ Well, that’s not how you speak to your wife,” she shared.
With insights from “Episodes,” co-written with journalist Kathy Iandoli, Gucci Mane reflects on his life and career while contextualizing the mental health struggles he faced. The memoir also incorporates perspectives from mental health experts, enhancing the understanding of his experiences.
Gucci Mane also expressed empathy for fellow celebrities grappling with mental health, mentioning instances from the lives of notable figures such as Kim Kardashian and Ye. He recalled giving away jewelry during tumultuous times, indicating the prevalence of behavior associated with such struggles. “I gave my friends jewelry. And they knew I wasn’t well, they’d take it. They was taking advantage,” he admitted.
The rapper acknowledged a pivotal moment during the COVID-19 pandemic that prompted him to seek help. With the impending birth of their son, Ice, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing his mental health to effectively raise his family. “I don’t want to raise a family, and then my mental health gone,” he stated.
Currently, Gucci Mane is actively participating in therapy and adhering to a medication regimen. He reinforced the idea that personal accountability is crucial for recovery, underscoring, “You got to do the work yourself, if you want to really get better.”
As discussions around mental health continue to grow, Gucci Mane’s journey encourages understanding and support for individuals facing similar challenges. His openness may foster a greater dialogue about mental health, inspiring many to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed.