ADHD Voices: Howie Mandel’s Battle for Balance
From Stand-Up to Standing Up for Mental Health
When you hear the name Howie Mandel, you might think of his antics on Deal or No Deal or his candid commentary on America’s Got Talent. But behind the jokes and laughter lies a deeply personal journey of managing ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety. Diagnosed as an adult, Mandel has become a powerful voice for those struggling silently with mental health disorders — and particularly for those living with ADHD.
“Back Then, It Was Just Called ‘Howie’”
Growing up in the 1960s, mental health vocabulary was limited. Mandel’s behavior didn’t fit the mold, but there were no names for it — no diagnosis, no treatment, no understanding. His boundless energy, inability to sit still, and difficulty focusing were brushed off or misunderstood. “In my case,” he reflects, “they were called ‘Howie.’”
It wasn’t until later in life that he received formal diagnoses for ADHD and OCD. By then, his career was already flourishing, but the struggle remained — private, painful, and persistent.
ADHD and the Art of Performance
Mandel’s ADHD symptoms found an odd harmony with his comedy and performance career. Fast-paced environments like Deal or No Deal play to his strengths: short interactions, lots of movement, and no long scripts. “I’m not stuck behind a pedestal reading trivia questions,” he said. “It’s like a standup act.”
However, scripted television work proved far more difficult. Memorizing and focusing on lines was a constant battle. Even in success, the invisible weight of ADHD never left.
Family, Fear, and Fortitude
Despite the fame, Mandel is honest about how hard ADHD and OCD have made his personal life. Married to his high-school sweetheart Terry for over 30 years, he admits that even simple conversations can be a challenge. “Every talk we have is peppered with, ‘Howie! Are you paying attention?’” he shares.
His children and wife have been in therapy, sometimes because of the difficulties his disorders have created. One-on-one time with his kids was precious, but he struggled to stay present beyond a few minutes. “I’d never say ADHD is a gift. And if it is, I’d love to return it,” he bluntly admits.
Mandel’s openness extends to the generational impact of mental health. His daughter, Jackie Shultz, also suffers from anxiety and OCD. “I’m not proud of that gift I’ve given her,” he says. Their shared journey has brought them closer — but not without scars.
Erasing the Stigma: “Me, Too”
One pivotal moment came when Mandel impulsively disclosed his OCD diagnosis on a talk show. Initially devastated, he was overwhelmed when fans approached him afterward with two powerful words: “Me, too.” That moment transformed his perspective. He realized he wasn’t alone, and neither were millions of others.
His honesty continues to dismantle stigma. In a world where people hesitate to admit they see a therapist, Mandel urges society to view mental health care with the same normalcy as dental visits. “You go twice a year to get your teeth cleaned — but God forbid you ask a psychiatrist, ‘Is it normal that I’m thinking these thoughts?’”
Managing ADHD in the Modern Age — with Help from AI
In today’s world, individuals with ADHD have more tools than ever — including powerful AI tools that can assist with focus, planning, and self-regulation. Here are a few Mandel might’ve appreciated early in life:
Notion + AI: Helps organize tasks and thoughts in a flexible, visually intuitive system — great for ADHD minds.
MindMate AI: A wellness app that combines mood tracking, habit setting, and cognitive behavioral coaching.
Reclaim.ai: Schedules and prioritizes tasks automatically to reduce overwhelm, perfect for those who struggle with time blindness.
By sharing his story, Mandel helps others realize that ADHD is not a barrier to success — but it does require awareness, support, and ongoing care.
Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Late
Whether you're a teen, a parent, or someone discovering their ADHD later in life, Mandel’s journey sends a powerful message: it’s never too late to get help. Diagnosis isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of understanding. “Managing symptoms is a lifetime commitment,” he says. “If one thing doesn’t work, try another. There are always alternatives.”
For many, ADHD can feel isolating. But thanks to people like Howie Mandel, more are finding the courage to say, “Me, too.”
