Kanye West reveals misdiagnosis: Opens up about living with autism and embracing his creativity

Kanye West, now known as Ye, recently opened up about his health during an interview on “The Download” podcast with Justin Laboy. West revealed that he had been misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder, explaining that it was actually autism that he is living with.

“My wife took me to see a doctor because she noticed something in my personality didn’t quite align with bipolar disorder,” West shared. “She said, ‘I’ve seen bipolar before, and this doesn’t seem to be that.’ After further evaluation, I learned that I actually have autism.”

This new diagnosis has allowed West to better understand himself and his behavior. He explained how autism has impacted the way he thinks and interacts with others.

“Autism can drive you into a ‘Rain Man’ situation,” West said, referring to the iconic movie character who exhibits obsessive behaviors. “When people tell me not to do something, I become fixated on it, and that’s one of my struggles.”

West compared this trait to his creative process. “When fans tell me to make an album a certain way, I’ll intentionally do the opposite,” he added, referencing his song “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” and how it mirrors his personal experiences.

He also discussed how his behavior can be difficult for those close to him. “It’s hard for people around me,” West said. “I’m a grown man, and you can’t control my finances or what I say on Twitter.”

In the past, West had discussed his diagnosis of bipolar disorder and the challenges he faced, including a psychiatric hold.

In a 2019 interview with David Letterman, he spoke about his struggles and his efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. He expressed that people often judged him and made unfair assumptions.

“People are allowed to say whatever they want about mental health and discriminate without consequences,” West remarked during that time.

It’s important to note that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Unlike mental health disorders, autism can be diagnosed at any age.

Now that West has learned more about his condition, he shared that he no longer takes medication for bipolar disorder. “Since I discovered that bipolar wasn’t the correct diagnosis, I’ve stopped taking the medication,” he explained.

“What’s important is finding ways that don’t block my creativity, because that’s my contribution to the world. It’s worth the effort as long as I can keep creating.”

West’s openness about his health journey has sparked conversation and raised awareness around autism and mental health.

Article taken from CNN