Heston Blumenthal says he ‘wouldn’t be here’ if his wife hadn’t sectioned him
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Heston Blumenthal has openly discussed his challenges with mental health in a frank recent interview.
The 58-year-old British chef, famous for his unconventional creations like bacon and egg-flavored ice cream and porridge with snails, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after being admitted to a psychiatric facility by his wife, Melanie Ceysson, in November 2023.
In an interview with The Times titled "What I’ve Learnt," Blumenthal shared, “It wasn’t just a couple of intense episodes of erratic behavior that led my wife to have me hospitalized. It reached a stage where, if she hadn’t taken action, I wouldn’t be alive today.”
"With all the intense ups and downs, it can be really tough for those close to you. I can’t keep bothering her because I've come up with a concept for an electric mattress that can guide you to the restroom during the night."
He went on to say, "The psychiatric hospital felt almost like a jail. It was really uncomfortable for me, and I felt confused. However, after two weeks, I was transferred to a much nicer and more peaceful environment. In total, I spent two months there."
Blumenthal expressed that since starting his relationship with Ceysson, he has learned to accept and appreciate himself, flaws and all.
In discussing his experience with bipolar disorder, he mentioned that for a long time, cooking had served as a way to conceal the effects of his condition.
"A year after receiving the diagnosis, I keep discovering moments from my past that clearly show I had classic bipolar symptoms. I can relate to everything on the list," he shared.
Years ago, I was diagnosed with ADHD. I believe I may also have PTSD. However, it wasn't until I found myself in the hospital that I considered the possibility of being bipolar.
"I kept overwhelming my team with a stream of fresh concepts. When dealing with bipolar disorder, you experience these intense high periods, where you feel amazing, convinced that you can make a difference in the world and see beauty in everything around you. However, it's important to remember that what goes up eventually comes down."
During an interview on BBC Newsnight on Tuesday, November 12, Blumenthal expressed his concern that watching the television series The Bear, which portrays the high-pressure environment of a restaurant, might lead to a bipolar episode for him.
"I have a few well-known chef friends who have helped with the consulting, so I'm sure it's quite reliable," he mentioned. "I look forward to the day I can watch it, but for now, it’s a bit too early."
Bipolar disorder is a mental health issue characterized by significant shifts in mood. It can be treated effectively with medication and therapy.
Blumenthal operates several restaurants, among them the Fat Duck, which has received three Michelin stars, as well as Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, which boasts two Michelin stars. He also owns the Michelin-starred Hind's Head and the Perfectionists' Café.
If this article resonates with you or you need assistance, please reach out to these organizations for help: actiononaddiction.org.uk, mind.org.uk, nhs.uk/livewell/mentalhealth, and mentalhealth.org.uk.
If you're feeling overwhelmed or having a tough time managing your emotions, you can reach out to the Samaritans for support. They offer a confidential listening service at 116 123 (for those in the UK and ROI). You can also email them at [email protected], or check their website to locate the nearest branch.
If you're located in the USA and you or someone you know is in need of mental health support immediately, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This hotline is free and confidential, offering assistance to anyone 24/7.
If you're in a different country, you can visit www.befrienders.org to locate a support hotline close to you.
