Pete Davidson, the name synonymous with contemporary comedy and raw, unfiltered honesty, has captivated audiences since his breakthrough on Saturday Night Live. Beyond his comedic genius and high-profile relationships, Davidson has been remarkably open about his health journey, sparking public interest in his well-being. So, Is Pete Davidson Sick? The answer is complex, involving both chronic physical and mental health conditions that he has bravely navigated in the public eye.
Davidson’s health story isn’t a recent development; it’s an ongoing narrative that he has shared with vulnerability and humor. From battling Crohn’s disease since his teenage years to openly discussing his mental health, including borderline personality disorder (BPD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Pete Davidson has become an unexpected advocate for health awareness. This article delves into the specifics of Pete Davidson’s health conditions, exploring his diagnoses, treatments, and how he manages to thrive while living with chronic illnesses.
Pete Davidson’s Battle with Crohn’s Disease
Long before he became a household name, Pete Davidson was grappling with the challenges of Crohn’s disease. Diagnosed as a teenager, this chronic inflammatory bowel disease has been a constant companion throughout his life and career. In a candid 2016 interview with High Times, Davidson revealed the debilitating symptoms he faced and how he turned to cannabis for relief. He described experiencing persistent stomach pain that hindered his ability to eat and perform. For Davidson, cannabis wasn’t about recreational use; it was a necessary tool to manage his Crohn’s symptoms, allowing him to eat and function, even to perform on SNL.
He openly expressed frustration with being labeled simply as a “pothead,” emphasizing that cannabis was a medical necessity for him. “I’m sick, I have Crohn’s… so it sucks,” he stated, highlighting the seriousness of his condition and the need for understanding beyond superficial judgments.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease: An Inflammatory Bowel Disease
To understand the impact of Crohn’s disease on Pete Davidson’s life, it’s crucial to grasp the nature of this illness. According to the Mayo Clinic, Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. This inflammation can affect any part of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus, although it most commonly affects the small and large intestines.
Symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary widely in severity and presentation, but often include abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. Dr. William A. Faubion, a gastroenterologist and researcher at the Mayo Clinic, notes that over half a million people in the United States are estimated to live with this chronic condition. Currently, there is no known cure for Crohn’s disease, and the exact cause remains elusive. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and improving the patient’s quality of life. Common treatments include anti-inflammatory medications, immune system suppressants, antibiotics, and in some cases, nutritional therapy and specialized diets.
Over a Decade Living with Crohn’s
Pete Davidson has been managing Crohn’s disease for over a decade, having been diagnosed in his late teens. Despite the ongoing challenges, he has not allowed the illness to derail his career. Instead, Davidson has integrated his experiences with Crohn’s into his comedy, using humor to cope and connect with audiences. A notable example is in his semi-autobiographical film, The King of Staten Island, where he included a scene referencing his Crohn’s disease. In the scene, when offered a hot dog, Davidson’s character declines, explaining, “Oh no I can’t I have Crohn’s. It’s like when the lining of your stomach is all messed up so it makes you s*** all the time.” This comedic take on a difficult condition showcases Davidson’s ability to find humor in adversity and raise awareness about Crohn’s disease in an accessible way.
Pete Davidson’s Mental Health Journey: BPD and PTSD
Beyond Crohn’s disease, Pete Davidson has been equally open about his mental health struggles. In 2017, he publicly revealed his diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD). A year later, in a Variety interview, he shared his history of suicidal thoughts, disclosing that he had been in and out of mental health facilities since childhood and had attempted suicide as young as fourth grade. Davidson credited mental health classes with significantly improving his well-being, stating, “The last few years have been real rough with me. I took all these mental health classes and really spent a lot of time getting me good.”
In a segment on SNL‘s “Weekend Update,” Davidson further discussed his BPD diagnosis, encouraging viewers to seek help and “see a doctor” if they were struggling. He also humorously suggested that more of his sketches on SNL might also improve his mental state, blending his personal struggles with his comedic persona. In a 2021 Variety “Actors on Actors” segment with Glenn Close, Davidson elaborated on the relief that came with his BPD diagnosis. “I got diagnosed with BPD a few years ago, and I was always just so confused all the time, and just thought something was wrong, and didn’t know how to deal with it,” he explained. “Then, when somebody finally tells you, the weight of the world feels lifted off your shoulders. You feel so much better.”
Most recently, in June 2023, it was reported that Pete Davidson entered rehab to address PTSD and borderline personality disorder. Sources indicated that this was a proactive step for Davidson to receive therapy and take a “mental break.” This highlights his continued commitment to managing his mental health and seeking support when needed.
Pete Davidson’s Health Today: Managing and Thriving
So, is Pete Davidson sick today? Yes, in the sense that he lives with chronic conditions – Crohn’s disease, BPD, and PTSD. However, “sick” doesn’t define him. Pete Davidson is actively managing his health, utilizing medical treatments, therapy, and coping mechanisms like humor to live a full and productive life. He continues to work, create, and engage with the world, demonstrating resilience and openness about his health challenges. His willingness to speak candidly about his experiences helps to destigmatize both physical and mental illnesses, encouraging others to seek help and support. Pete Davidson’s journey is a testament to living well with chronic conditions, proving that “sick” is not a limitation but a part of a larger, more complex, and ultimately inspiring story.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or in crisis, please seek help. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.
