Nicolas Demorand, a prominent host on France Inter, publicly shared his battle with bipolar disorder during a broadcast on March 26, 2025, breaking the silence surrounding mental health and aiming to demystify the illness.
The announcement coincides with the release of his book, Intérieur nuit, which hits the shelves on March 27, 2025. In it, he reveals his experience living with the illness for the past 30 years, even though he received his diagnosis just eight years ago.
Demorand's revelation comes as part of a significant moment in French media, as he hopes his candidness will inspire others who suffer from mental health issues to speak out. “I am a mental patient,” he declared on air, emphasizing the importance of breaking taboos associated with mental illness.
Reflecting on a special mental health day organized by France Inter last September, Demorand recalled, “That day, I didn’t dare to tell you what I was burning to say: I, too, suffer from one of these illnesses about which our guests were expressing themselves.” His intent now is to advocate for those who suffer privately, asserting, “It is possible to work with a mental illness.”
Diagnosed with type 2 bipolar disorder, Demorand eloquently discusses the contrasts in his life—alternating between euphoric highs and debilitating lows. “I alternate between phases of euphoria and periods of depression, but I am treated,” he stated, reassuring his audience of his ongoing management of the condition.
In Intérieur nuit, Demorand expresses how his condition has impacted his life and career, even leading him to a suicide attempt after years of silence and suffering—“After over ten years of medical wandering, shame, and brutal suffering…” he mentioned. The harrowing detail of his journey illustrates the real pain behind the taboos surrounding mental health discussions.
His colleagues were reportedly unaware of his struggles until now, with Léa Salamé being one of the few who stood by him. “The direction at Radio France was not aware of my condition, but Léa Salamé knew and supported me enormously,” he explained, highlighting the necessity for support in the fight against stigma.
Demorand joins the ranks of notable figures opening up about mental health, emphasizing, “If a #MeToo of mental illness emerged, everyone suffering in silence would see their lives significantly improved.” His goal is to foster societal understanding and acceptance of mental health diagnoses, sharing that mental illness does not diminish one’s capability to work and thrive.
In Belgium, statistics show that one in ten individuals experiences bipolar disorder, a figure that resonates strongly with Demorand's own experiences. This aligns with a broader global movement encouraging individuals to seek help and speak out about their mental health challenges.
As World Bipolar Day approaches on March 30, 2025, Demorand's revelations resonate more than ever, reminding people of the ongoing dialogues that must take place concerning mental health.
His book is poised for a significant release, with Les Arènes having ordered a print run of 100,000 copies, echoing the public's growing interest in authentic and vulnerable discussions surrounding mental illness.
Demorand’s brave admission is a rallying call for collective action against the stigma surrounding mental health, with him hoping that individuals will no longer feel the need to hide or suffer alone. “I am determined to make it a fight for those thousands and hundreds of thousands suffering in silence,” he expressed, demonstrating his commitment to this vital cause.
In his intimate and powerful narrative, Demorand illustrates that despite the hurdles presented by bipolar disorder, living openly and authentically can provide not only relief but also community for others facing similar challenges. His story is a profound reminder that mental health issues can be faced with courage and resilience.
As the conversation on mental health continues to develop, figures like Demorand play crucial roles in shaping public perceptions and discussions around these vital topics, reaffirming that no one should feel alone in their struggle, and that sharing one’s truth can pave the way for healing and understanding.
