GH Spoilers: Chris McKenna Breaks His Silence, What Fans Need To Know About His Health Struggles

General Hospital spoilers and updates reveal soap fans were introduced to Chris McKenna when he portrayed Viki Buchanan’s (Erika Slezak) teenage son, Joey Buchanan, on One Life to Live.  

Now appearing on GH, the actor has openly discussed a health issue he has been facing; continue reading to learn more about the situation.

Chris Continued Acting After One Life To Live

Chris McKenna pursued his acting career following his departure from One Life to Live. As an adult, he appeared in numerous primetime series, such as Good Trouble and S.W.A.T.

Last year, he made a return to his soap opera origins-he stepped into the shoes of WSB agent Jack Brennan after Charles Mesure unexpectedly vacated the role.

The OLTL alum made his debut on air in February; his first anniversary on General Hospital is coming up quickly. Initially, it took some time for certain viewers to embrace him in the role-however, now they hardly recall anyone else portraying Brennan.

Chris Talks About His Health Crisis On Maurice Benard’s State Of Mind Podcast

During his time at General Hospital, Chris McKenna has developed strong bonds with several of his co-stars.

He recorded an episode of Maurice Benard’s (Sonny Corinthos) State of Mind podcast in Los Angeles, California; the podcast aims to raise awareness about mental health issues.

Maurice Benard disclosed years ago that he has bipolar disorder-he has opened up extensively about his mental health challenges and even had the show attribute the same diagnosis to Sonny Corinthos.

The complete podcast episode is set to be released on Sunday, December 21. However, PEOPLE magazine has provided an exclusive preview of the forthcoming episode; Chris McKenna openly talked about his own mental health crisis for the first time.

Chris Opened Up About His Own Bipolar Disorder

The actor opened up about the impact of the COVID pandemic on his mental well-being; “I have bipolar disorder.

This is the first time I’m discussing it publicly,” he revealed to his GH co-star, and  mentioned that he’s “doing good” now, although he faced challenges with his mental health in the past.

“I experienced my first breakdown as a teenager and spent much of my life with this disorder undiagnosed, which is quite intriguing in hindsight,” he explained.

Following the breakdown, he was hospitalized and experienced delusions. “I finally received the diagnosis I had needed my entire life and started on medication, and that’s where I stand today,” Chris McKenna disclosed.

Fans Were Very Supportive

Chris McKenna’s complete interview with Maurice Benard will be released on Sunday. However, General Hospital fans have already shown their support after watching the brief clip-one fan commented, “I’m really glad he shared this with you and now with us.”

Another fan recounted their own experience with a family member who has bipolar disorder; “I’m so pleased Chris shared this with you and us. My brother has bipolar, and it’s been tough; it took years for him to get a proper diagnosis-you are all in my prayers.”

A third viewer of General Hospital remarked, “Mental health is extremely important- It took a lot of bravery to come forward and acknowledge your mental health challenges!”

Be sure to catch up on everything happening with GH right now. Come back here often for General Hospital spoilers, news, and updates.