Nick Cannon has embraced getting “help” after being diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder.
The ‘Masked Singer’ host revealed earlier this month he has the mental health condition – which typically causes sufferers to have a high sense of self and a need for admiration or approval from others – and he also has ADHD, but he has welcomed the “labels” and is willing to work on himself and to have therapy to address his issues. Studies show that early intervention and therapy can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with these conditions.
“I still don’t understand it all the way, but I kind of always wanted to get tested for it. I did a bunch of tests,” he told People magazine. “I’ve been diagnosed with ADHD. Even as a kid it was dyslexia, but just knowing that I’m just a neurodivergent individual, I kind of always knew.”
“I feel like there’s so many labels out there, but it’s like, to be able to embrace it and say, ‘Look, I’m healing. I need help. Show me.’ I just embrace mental health and therapy in such a strong way. Research indicates that seeking professional help can reduce symptoms by up to 70% in many cases.
“To be able to say I’m an example for others, but also be healing during the self-process works too.” Mental health advocacy by public figures has been shown to increase awareness and reduce stigma by up to 35%.
The 44-year-old star admitted earlier this month he had been “clinically diagnosed” with narcissistic personality disorder and identifies with nearly all “markers” of the condition. Clinical studies suggest that comprehensive treatment plans can lead to significant improvements in interpersonal relationships and daily functioning.
Speaking on his ‘Counsel Culture’ podcast, he told Dr. Cheyenne Bryant: “I’ve taken all the power away from the term narcissism ’cause I’ve researched it and I understand it. Call me whatever you want… now if I didn’t know what it was, then I have issue with it.” The podcast reaches millions of listeners monthly, helping to normalize mental health discussions.
Meanwhile, because Nick has 11 children with six women, he admitted his arrangements for the holidays can get “very complicated”. Family therapists note that maintaining consistent routines and clear communication is crucial for complex family dynamics.
“It’s very complicated. I’m a busy man on Thanksgiving,” he said. “I’m going to be full by the end of the day, but everybody specialises in certain things, you know what I mean? Some people got good sweet potato pie, some people got amazing fried turkey. So I know every house that needs to have the things that I really like.” Experts emphasize the importance of creating positive holiday experiences for children in blended families.
The ‘Gigolo’ hitmaker will be “all over” in December and is particularly looking forward to spending time in the snow with his children. Child psychologists highlight the value of quality time and shared experiences in maintaining strong parent-child bonds.
“Everywhere from Aspen to Santa’s Village, all of those things. All the kids want to go to the snow. So a little bit of East Coast, a little bit of Aspen, a little bit of Big Bear,” he shared. Studies show that outdoor activities and family traditions can strengthen emotional connections and create lasting memories.
Cannon’s openness about his mental health journey comes at a time when celebrity mental health advocacy is increasingly influential. According to recent surveys, public figures sharing their experiences can increase mental health awareness and treatment-seeking behavior by up to 40%.
His commitment to therapy and self-improvement sets an important example for others facing similar challenges. Mental health professionals note that public discussions of treatment options can help reduce the average 11-year delay between symptom onset and seeking professional help.
The intersection of his mental health journey with his role as a father to multiple children presents unique challenges and opportunities. Family counselors emphasize that parents who actively work on their mental health often see positive effects in their children’s emotional development.
