David Harbour has shared a powerful message about mental health, revealing that confronting his bipolar disorder and quitting alcohol were pivotal steps that allowed him to finally 'live his dreams'. The actor's candid reflection comes just three months after his separation from singer Lily Allen.
A Diagnosis and a Turning Point
The 50-year-old Stranger Things star was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in his twenties following a severe manic episode. This incident led to him being institutionalised for a short time by his own parents. Harbour, known for playing Chief Jim Hopper, explained that his condition is typified by extreme mood swings and erratic behaviour, but he is determined not to let it define him.
In an interview with Future Of Personal Health, Harbour stated his motivation for speaking out. 'I wanted folks to know that although I am living my dreams now, this is not the way it’s always been,' he said. He hopes to reach concerned parents and others who love someone suffering, adding, 'I wanted to speak to her and to the millions that know and love folks who are suffering.'
The Path to a 'Tremendously Fulfilling Life'
Harbour credits two major life changes for his current stability and success: giving up alcohol and committing to intense psychotherapy. He believes the decisions he made as a younger man have ultimately given him a 'tremendously fulfilling life'.
'My mental health disorder is something I live with, but it does not define me,' Harbour asserted. 'However, if it defines you I can assure you that there is a way to have a tremendously fulfilling life. I’m living proof that you can be anything you want to be.' He admits there were times he thought he'd never achieve his goals or even 'get off the couch', but he wants others to know 'it does get better'.
Understanding Mania and Maintaining Stability
Harbour described his past manic episodes in vivid detail. 'Thought becomes disordered and chaotic. Things that have no meaning became meaningful. Names, numbers and colours acquire a twisted symbolism,' he explained. He identified a 'fundamental narcissism' at the core, making him feel like the centre of all things.
The actor says he hasn't experienced a major flare-up since undergoing consistent psychotherapy with a good therapist. 'Only recently have I started intense psychotherapy, and it has made a world of difference in my treatment,' he revealed. This greater awareness means he is now better equipped to manage his symptoms.
Harbour's personal revelations follow a tumultuous period in his private life. His marriage to Lily Allen ended abruptly in October last year amid allegations of infidelity. Allen's latest album, West End Girl, is widely believed to be inspired by their turbulent relationship, though she has stated, 'some of it is based on truth and some of it is fantasy.'
Professionally, Harbour recently concluded the global press tour for the final season of Netflix's Stranger Things, which aired its last episode on December 31. Through it all, his focus remains on his mental health journey and offering hope to others facing similar struggles.
