David Harbour Opens Up About His Intense Psychotherapy Journey

Key Takeaways

• David Harbour, the star of Stranger Things, has spoken about how therapy has helped his mental health, particularly with managing his bipolar disorder.
• Harbour was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 25 and has been in therapy since 1999, when he got sober.
• The actor credits intense psychotherapy with making a significant difference in his treatment and reducing his manic episodes.
• Harbour emphasizes the importance of hard individual work and responsible medication in managing mental health.
• He also stresses the need for accessible and affordable therapy options, suggesting that people find groups that don’t charge or don’t charge much if they can’t afford traditional therapy.

Introduction to David Harbour’s Mental Health Journey
David Harbour, the beloved actor from the Netflix series Stranger Things, has been open about his struggles with mental health. In a resurfaced interview, Harbour discussed how therapy has been instrumental in managing his bipolar disorder. The actor, who has been in the public eye for his roles in Stranger Things, Black Widow, and Revolutionary Road, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 25. Harbour’s honesty about his mental health struggles has helped to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental illness.

The Importance of Therapy in Managing Bipolar Disorder
Harbour has emphasized the significance of therapy in his mental health journey. He has been in therapy since 1999, when he got sober, and has recently started intense psychotherapy, which he credits with making a substantial difference in his treatment. The actor notes that medication alone is only half the battle and that hard individual work is essential in managing mental health. Harbour’s experience highlights the importance of a holistic approach to mental health, incorporating both medication and therapy. By sharing his story, Harbour hopes to help others who are struggling with similar issues, demonstrating the value of openness and vulnerability in promoting mental health awareness.

Understanding Manic Episodes and Their Impact
Harbour has also spoken about what manic episodes are like for him, describing the disordered and chaotic thinking that characterizes these episodes. He explains that during these episodes, things that have no meaning become meaningful, and he experiences a twisted symbolism, where names, numbers, and colors acquire a distorted significance. Harbour also notes that there is a fundamental narcissism at the bottom of these episodes, making him feel like he is the center of all things. By sharing his personal experience with manic episodes, Harbour helps to raise awareness about the complexities of bipolar disorder and the need for understanding and support.

The Need for Accessible and Affordable Therapy Options
Harbour stresses the importance of accessible and affordable therapy options, recognizing that not everyone can afford traditional therapy. He suggests that people find groups that don’t charge or don’t charge much, emphasizing the need for community-based support systems. This approach highlights the value of collective effort in promoting mental health, where individuals can come together to support one another in their struggles. By promoting affordable therapy options, Harbour encourages people to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed, rather than suffering in silence.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts
David Harbour’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for accessible therapy options. By sharing his personal experience with bipolar disorder, Harbour helps to reduce stigma around mental illness and promotes a culture of openness and understanding. As we strive to create a more supportive and inclusive environment, it is essential to prioritize mental health and recognize the value of therapy in managing mental health conditions. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has access to the support and resources they need to thrive.