AJ Mendez, known to WWE fans around the world as AJ Lee, returns to State of Mind and has a deeply honest and powerful conversation Maurice. They talked about growing up tough, surviving pressure, living with bipolar disorder, and returning to the wrestling spotlight with a healthier sense of self.
AJ opens up about her childhood, her mother’s mental health journey, hospitalization, therapy, routine, and the tools that help her separate herself from dark thoughts. She also shares why she named the darker side of her bipolar disorder “Jean,” how she learned to manage anxiety before stepping back into the ring, and why support, treatment, and self-awareness look different for everyone.
For lifelong WWE fans, this is a rare look at the person behind AJ Lee. For anyone navigating their own mental health journey, it is a reminder that a diagnosis does not have to define you. With the right tools, support, and honesty, what feels like a weakness can become part of your strength.
In this episode, Maurice and AJ discuss bipolar disorder, wrestling, anxiety, depression, WWE, mental health support, creative work, marriage, storytelling, and why living with a mental health condition can become a superpower.
Support Resources: 🆘 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988 for 24/7 free, confidential support. 📘 "Nothing General About It" Autobiography: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062973371
(Disclaimer: This program is intended strictly for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It does not constitute formal medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or mental health treatment protocols.)
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Video Versions of State of Mind available on YouTube! Watch! Read Maurice’s New York Times Bestselling Book! Nothing General About It: How Love (and Lithium) Saved Me On and Off General Hospital
Follow Maurice on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mauricebenard/
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mbstateofmind/ State Of Mind Merch:https://www.mbstateofmind.com State of Mind Production Team: Host & Editorial: Maurice Benard Executive Producer: Paula Benard Director of Production & Video: Anthony Cammarata Podcast Strategy Consultant: Aaron Calafato Audio Consultant: Ken Wendt
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