General Hospital’s Chris McKenna Reveals He Has Bipolar Disorder, Was Diagnosed After a ‘Manic Psychotic Episode’ (Exclusive)

General Hospital star Chris McKenna has taken a powerful step forward by publicly opening up about his experience living with bipolar disorder, revealing a deeply personal journey marked by confusion, struggle, and ultimately, clarity. Known to viewers for his commanding presence on screen, McKenna’s real-life story is far more complex—and far more human—than many fans ever imagined.

At 48, McKenna revealed that his diagnosis came only after decades of living with symptoms he never fully understood. He shared that his mental health challenges began as early as his teenage years, marked by extreme emotional shifts and periods of distorted thinking. Without a diagnosis, he spent much of his life attempting to rationalize behaviors and thoughts that, in hindsight, were clear warning signs.

The turning point came during the COVID-19 lockdowns, a time McKenna described as emotionally suffocating. The isolation and monotony intensified his symptoms, ultimately leading to a severe manic psychotic episode that required hospitalization. It was during this crisis that doctors were finally able to identify the root cause of his struggles and diagnose him with bipolar disorder.

Looking back, McKenna admitted there were moments when his thinking became detached from reality. He recalled experiencing delusions and believing he possessed abilities that defied logic. For years, he dismissed these episodes or attributed them to substance use, never realizing they were part of a larger, untreated mental health condition.

Receiving a diagnosis was both devastating and relieving. For the first time, McKenna had an explanation for patterns that had followed him throughout his life. With proper treatment and medication, he says he has since found a level of stability he never thought possible. While bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, understanding it has given him tools to manage it rather than be controlled by it.

McKenna also spoke candidly about how mental health struggles intersected with substance use, acknowledging that alcohol and drugs at times masked deeper issues rather than addressing them. His honesty sheds light on how easily mental health conditions can go undetected, especially in high-pressure industries like entertainment.

A key source of strength for McKenna has been connecting with others who understand the journey. Sharing his story publicly was not an easy decision, but one he felt compelled to make in hopes of breaking stigma and encouraging conversation. He emphasized that seeking help is not weakness, but survival.