In a significant public statement, controversial musician and fashion designer Kanye West has formally apologised for a series of anti-Semitic rants that sparked widespread condemnation. The apology was delivered through a lengthy advertisement published in the Wall Street Journal, where West attributed his behaviour to a severe four-month manic episode.
A Detailed Account of Mental Health Struggles
West described falling into what he termed a "four-month long manic episode of psychotic, paranoid and impulsive behaviour" in early 2025. He stated this period "destroyed my life" and led to moments where "I didn't want to be here anymore." The artist drew a clear distinction between his manic states and periods of stability, noting that "when you go into a manic episode, you are ill at that point. When you are not in an episode, you are completely 'normal'. And that's when the wreckage from the illness hits the hardest."
The Impact on Relationships and Self-Perception
The statement revealed profound regret for his actions during this period. "I said and did things I deeply regret," West admitted. "Some of the people I love the most, I treated the worst. You endured fear, confusion, humiliation, and the exhaustion of trying to have someone who was unrecognisable." He reflected that he had become "detached from my true self" during the episode.
West specifically credited his wife, Bianca Censori, with encouraging him to "get help" after he reached what he described as "rock bottom." This acknowledgment highlighted the personal support system that facilitated his path toward addressing his mental health challenges.
Root Causes and Bipolar Disorder Insights
The artist provided context for his mental health struggles, claiming they stemmed from a brain injury that "went unnoticed" for years following an accident approximately 25 years ago. He offered insights into the nature of bipolar disorder, describing it as coming "with its own defence system" of denial.
"When you're manic, you don't think you're sick," West explained. "You think everyone else is overreacting. You feel like you're seeing the world more clearly than ever, when in reality you're losing your grip entirely. Things got worse the longer I ignored the problem."
Context and Broader Implications
This public apology represents a notable development in West's ongoing controversies, particularly regarding his previous anti-Semitic remarks that drew criticism from advocacy groups, fellow artists, and business partners. The decision to use a paid advertisement in a major financial publication underscores the calculated nature of this communication effort.
Mental health advocates have long emphasised the importance of distinguishing between explanations and excuses for harmful behaviour, particularly when public figures discuss their psychological struggles. West's detailed account provides rare insight into the subjective experience of manic episodes while acknowledging the real-world consequences of his actions during those periods.
The statement raises questions about accountability, mental health awareness in the entertainment industry, and the complex relationship between psychological conditions and public behaviour. As West continues his career, this apology marks a significant attempt to address past controversies while framing them within the context of his mental health journey.
