In a recent interview on the "Download" podcast, Kanye West, now known as Ye, disclosed that he has been diagnosed with autism, overturning his previous bipolar disorder diagnosis. He attributed this revelation to his wife, Bianca Censori, who encouraged him to seek a second opinion after questioning the initial diagnosis.
West explained that understanding his autism has provided clarity on his past behaviors and decisions, including his outspoken support for former President Donald Trump and his resistance to external influences on his music. He emphasized that this new understanding has allowed him to make sense of actions that were previously attributed to bipolar disorder.
Since receiving the autism diagnosis, West has chosen to forego medication, expressing concerns that it might hinder his creativity. Instead, he focuses on monitoring his mental health and recognizing early signs of potential episodes to manage them proactively.
In addition to discussing his diagnosis, West announced that his upcoming album, titled "Bully," is inspired by his son, Saint. He also touched upon various aspects of his career, creative process, and ongoing tensions within the music industry, notably between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. West underscored the importance of creativity free from the constraints of incorrect diagnoses and medication.
This revelation marks a significant shift in West's understanding of his mental health, as he had previously been open about his bipolar disorder diagnosis, which was made public in 2018. The new autism diagnosis offers a different perspective on his experiences and behaviors over the years.
West's openness about his diagnosis has the potential to influence public perceptions of autism, particularly in adults. His decision to share this aspect of his personal journey may contribute to broader discussions about mental health, neurodiversity, and the importance of seeking accurate diagnoses.