Mandel: Self-medication during pandemic nearly killed me

America's Got Talent judge Howie Mandel has disclosed a frightening near-death experience during the COVID pandemic, stemming from a phase of self-medication. Mandel, who has a well-documented fear of germs and struggles with OCD and anxiety, found the pandemic particularly challenging. His insomnia led him to take gummies, which unfortunately escalated to smoking and drinking as he sought to escape his overwhelming thoughts.

These substances were used in an effort to become unconscious. At one point, his wife was concerned she would have to take him to the hospital because she couldn't wake him up. Mandel admitted he struggles with moderation in all aspects of his life. His wife, Terry, eventually issued an ultimatum, urging him to seek professional help as she could no longer cope with his behavior.

Mandel, who is now sober and surrounded by professionals, credited his wife's intervention for getting him into therapy. He acknowledged that his OCD has led to extreme behaviors outside of the pandemic as well, such as building a separate guest house to isolate from family members sneezing indoors. His wife's support was crucial in guiding him toward managing his mental health.