'Reading Rainbow' Host Mychal Threets Reveals Bipolar, OCD, and Autism Diagnoses

Beloved online personality and *Reading Rainbow* digital host Mychal Threets is giving his community a transparent look into his ongoing health journey. The 36-year-old internet-famous librarian took to social media to share that medical professionals recently gave him new mental health diagnoses following an intense personal period. In a candid message posted to Threads, Threets disclosed that he has been diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and bipolar disorder. The news comes after he was previously diagnosed with autism and ADHD earlier this year. While the viral content creator expressed genuine pride in identifying as neurodivergent, he was equally honest about how difficult living with these conditions can be on a daily basis.

Accompanying his written post with an explanatory video, the former literary worker detailed the profound strain his symptoms have inflicted on his well-being. He described experiencing spiraling thoughts, severe sleep deprivation, vivid nightmares, and concerning memory lapses. He noted that the sensation of not knowing what is real, coupled with intense depression, has been overwhelming. Despite the psychological turmoil, Threets maintained a remarkably resilient outlook. He told his followers that his brain continues to fight for him, noting that feelings of hope and joy still exist alongside his overwhelming emotions. Reminding his audience that life remains complicated for everyone, he offered a comforting message to anyone struggling alongside him.

BUZZBEAT

The new update arrives on the heels of another significant personal update from the digital personality. Threets recently celebrated going seven consecutive days without struggling against intrusive thoughts regarding ending his life. That milestone followed his decision to voluntarily check himself into a hospital for help, which resulted in a five-day psychiatric hold. Throughout his rise to fame on TikTok and his subsequent connection to the iconic *Reading Rainbow* brand, Threets has consistently prioritized mental health advocacy alongside his love for books. By publicly sharing his lived experiences with psychiatric care and neurodivergence, he continues to foster a supportive space for fans dealing with similar challenges.