Kirk Minihane Takes Indefinite Hiatus from Show Due to Mental Health Struggles

Kirk Minihane has announced an indefinite hiatus from his Barstool Sports podcast due to ongoing mental health struggles. In a post on X, he described the past few months as among the lowest points he can remember, stating, 'I'm taking some time off from the show, it's been a really tough last few months and I need to step away.' Minihane emphasized that he is okay and highlighted the importance of seeking help, stating, 'As always, it's okay to ask for help when you need it, and you're not alone.' This marks at least the fourth time Minihane has stepped away from his show for mental health reasons since 2018.

Although he did not specify if he is entering treatment this time, he acknowledged that there would be people gloating over his struggles, which he considered fair given his confrontational approach in media.

Kirk Minihane has had a history of mental health challenges, having previously checked himself into a hospital in August 2018 due to suicidal thoughts. After a brief return to work, he took another indefinite leave of absence.

The report details how Minihane's confrontational style has made him both popular and controversial in Boston sports media. He initially joined WEEI in 2013, where his contributions helped the show achieve top ratings.

However, his mental health struggles have led to multiple breaks from work, including a treatment announcement in March 2020 for depression and suicidal thoughts. In November 2021, he took another leave to address depression, anxiety, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts.

Minihane's openness about his mental health has been a part of his brand, intertwining his personal struggles with his public persona. His show, which celebrated its one-thousandth episode, has allowed him more freedom to express himself, yet he continues to face the challenge of balancing his mental health with the demands of entertainment.

In response to this latest hiatus, the conversation around mental health awareness in high-pressure environments like media and entertainment has been reignited, emphasizing the necessity for open discussions regarding mental health challenges.

The report concludes that Minihane's decision to step away serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental health.