Maurice Benard Opens Up About Mental Health and Anxiety Management: A Personal and On-Screen Journey

Maurice Benard, the actor behind the iconic mob boss Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital, has captivated fans for decades with his nuanced portrayal of the character. His performance is not just about crime and drama but also touches on deeper themes, including mental health—a topic that resonates both with Benard personally and in the character he plays. The actor’s openness about his struggles with bipolar disorder has made him a powerful advocate for mental health awareness. Through his podcast State of Mind, Benard recently shared reflections on anxiety, his evolving relationship with reading, and his efforts to manage mental health challenges head-on.

From Actor to Advocate: Benard’s Bipolar Disorder and Sonny Corinthos’ Diagnosis

Benard has long been open about living with bipolar disorder, a condition that has shaped both his personal life and professional journey. When he brought the issue to the forefront on General Hospital, his character, Sonny Corinthos, was written to receive the same diagnosis. This storyline not only enriched the character but also raised awareness about the disorder, sparking meaningful conversations among viewers about mental health.

For Benard, acting is more than just a job—it’s a platform to advocate for mental well-being. Over the years, he has used his visibility to destigmatize mental illness, encouraging fans to confront their own struggles and seek support.

Exploring Anxiety on State of Mind: “Knowledge is Power”

In a recent episode of his podcast State of Mind, Benard delved into the subject of anxiety, which has become a growing focus in his life. “I used to be a big reader,” Benard said, reflecting on how reading once played a central role in his routine. However, with life becoming increasingly busy, his reading habits have dwindled.

Despite this shift, Benard emphasized the importance of acquiring knowledge, especially when it comes to managing anxiety. “I want to be ahead of the game—the mental health game,” he explained, adding that education is essential for understanding anxiety and finding ways to cope. He noted that when anxiety persists, gaining as much knowledge as possible is the key to staying in control.

Learning About Anxiety: Strategies for Coping

Benard shared insights into his approach to dealing with anxiety, focusing on both the science and personal experience. “You’ve got to understand the history and science of anxiety,” he advised, stressing the importance of recognizing when anxiety becomes a serious problem. Additionally, he discussed the need to differentiate anxiety from other mental health conditions and find ways to address it both in the moment and over the long term.

In a powerful statement, Benard said, “If you can’t beat him—or if you can beat him—knowledge is power, right?” His message is clear: equipping oneself with information and tools to manage mental health challenges is the best way forward.

Book Recommendation: Un** Your Anxiety*

As part of his commitment to tackling anxiety, Benard revealed that he is currently reading the book Un** Your Anxiety: Using Science to Rewire Your Anxious Brain*. This book aligns with his goal of gaining a deeper understanding of anxiety and finding practical solutions to reframe anxious thoughts.

The actor’s openness about his personal journey struck a chord with fans, many of whom responded with messages of encouragement. One fan commented, “I love reading, but I have to admit that I don’t do much of it anymore. My device has taken up too much time. When the weather cools off, I will find a good book and hopefully start reading again. Enjoy yours!”

Benard’s candor not only resonates with individuals dealing with mental health challenges but also inspires them to rediscover lost passions—like reading—that can help in the healing process.

On-Screen Drama: Sonny Corinthos’ Latest Storyline

Meanwhile, Benard’s on-screen alter ego, Sonny Corinthos, is embroiled in intense drama on General Hospital. In recent episodes, Sonny took drastic action by killing John Kates (played by Adam Harrington) to protect his daughter, Kristina Corinthos-Davis (portrayed by Kate Mansi). This act of violence underscores the complicated nature of Sonny’s character, who is constantly balancing personal loyalty and moral ambiguity.

The latest storyline has stirred up excitement among fans, especially those invested in Sonny’s relationship with Kristina. However, the transition of Kristina’s character from actress Lexi Ainsworth to Kate Mansi sparked some controversy on social media. Some viewers expressed dissatisfaction with the change, comparing Mansi’s portrayal to Ainsworth’s earlier work. Despite the mixed reactions, fans continue to follow the drama in Port Charles with great interest.

Looking Ahead: Benard’s Influence On and Off Screen

Maurice Benard’s influence extends far beyond the set of General Hospital. Through his portrayal of Sonny Corinthos and his personal advocacy work, Benard has become a beacon of hope for those living with mental health challenges. His ongoing efforts to raise awareness—whether through storytelling, podcasts, or candid conversations—are inspiring fans to take their own mental well-being seriously.

With Benard’s continued dedication to both his craft and his advocacy, it’s clear that his work will have a lasting impact. As he navigates his personal challenges, such as anxiety, and explores new ways to manage them, his message remains one of hope, resilience, and empowerment: “Knowledge is power.”

Fans can expect more thought-provoking discussions from Benard on State of Mind and look forward to the unfolding drama on General Hospital. Whether through his real-life experiences or his on-screen role, Maurice Benard reminds us that confronting life’s challenges—whether mental health struggles or fictional mob wars—requires courage, compassion, and a willingness to learn.

Be sure to stay tuned for the latest updates on General Hospital and don’t miss future episodes of State of Mind.