“Normalizes what so many others feel but have been too fearful or ashamed to express… remarkable.” -Psychology Today

“A perversely safe place in which [Paul] and his guests talk about their fears, addictions and traumatic childhoods.” -The New York Times

Podcast “Best Of” list at: NY Times, Slate, Esquire & Apple Podcasts

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The Mental Illness Happy Hour is a weekly online podcast that interviews comedians, artists, friends, and the occasional doctor. Each episode explores mental illness, trauma, addiction and negative thinking.

Latest episodes

  • 6/26/2026Being An Outsider – A Best Of Ep – RamaEpisode: 806
    A powerful and intimate conversation and one of Paul’s favorites (and the origin of the "Herbert's Butthole" riff). Originally aired in 2015, the then 28 year-old Syrian opens up about always being the minority wherever she lives (She was born in Syria, grew up in Brazil and now lives in the US), racism towards Arabs, recovering from sexual abuse, battling depression and anxiety and how getting help has saved her life. Her boyfriend Haydn, whose episode was rerun a few weeks ago also sits in on the interview.
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About the Show

Comedian Paul Gilmartin hosts a weekly, hour-long audio podcast consisting of interviews with artists, friends and the occasional doctor.

The show is geared towards anyone interested in or affected by depression, addiction and other mental challenges which are so prevalent in the creative arts.

Paul’s hope is that the show and this website will give people a place to connect, smile and feel the return of hope. The biggest myth about mental illness is that you are alone and there is no help.

DISCLAIMER:

The Mental Illness Happy Hour is NOT a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.
For information on treatment please visit HelpGuide.org