Nick Cannon, the multifaceted entertainer and host of The Masked Singer, has recently shared insights into his mental health journey, revealing his diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder. Earlier in November, Cannon, 44, spoke candidly about this aspect of his life, emphasizing his commitment to managing his mental well-being.
Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the Los Angeles Mission’s Thanksgiving celebration on Wednesday, November 27th, Cannon explained his proactive approach to understanding his mental health. “I still don’t understand it all the way, but I kind of always wanted to get tested for it. I did a bunch of tests,” he stated. This openness marks a significant step in Cannon’s ongoing dialogue about neurodiversity and mental health awareness.
Cannon further elaborated on his history with mental health labels, mentioning previous diagnoses. “I’ve been diagnosed with ADHD. Even as a kid it was dyslexia, but just knowing that I’m just a neurodivergent individual, I kind of always knew,” he added. This perspective of neurodiversity helps Cannon contextualize his recent diagnosis within a broader understanding of his cognitive profile.
Now, Cannon is actively embracing his narcissistic personality disorder diagnosis as a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement. “I feel like there’s so many labels out there, but it’s like, to be able to embrace it and say, ‘Look, I’m healing. I need help. Show me.’ I just embrace mental health and therapy in such a strong way,” he explained. His willingness to seek help and openly discuss his experiences positions him as a public figure advocating for mental health awareness. “To be able to say I’m an example for others, but also be healing during the self-process works too,” Cannon shared, highlighting his dual role as both an example and someone on his own healing path.
Cannon initially disclosed his diagnosis on the November 8th episode of his podcast, Counsel Culture. During a conversation with Dr. Cheyenne Bryant, a Doctor of Psychology, he confirmed the “clinical diagnosis” of narcissistic personality disorder. He further explained that he identifies with almost all the characteristics associated with the disorder.
“I’ve taken all the power away from the term narcissism ’cause I’ve researched it and I understand it,” Cannon said on the podcast. “Call me whatever you want… now if I didn’t know what it was, then I have issue with it.” By confronting the term directly and educating himself, Cannon demonstrates a proactive approach to understanding and managing his condition.
In addition to discussing his mental health, Cannon, a father of twelve, also touched upon his plans for the holiday season. He shared details about spending time with his large family during Thanksgiving and the upcoming December holidays. Despite his busy schedule, he emphasizes the importance of family and creating memorable experiences for his children. “It’s very complicated. I’m a busy man on Thanksgiving,” he noted, referencing the logistics of visiting multiple homes. He also mentioned plans for December, including trips to snowy locations like Aspen and Santa’s Village, catering to his children’s wishes for winter experiences.
Through his openness about his mental health diagnosis and his commitment to personal growth, Nick Cannon is contributing to the broader conversation around mental health, encouraging others to seek understanding and support for their own well-being.
