In this episode, which originally aired in January of 2025, General Hospital's Finn Carr (Rocco) and Maurice Benard (Sonny) sit down for a deeply honest conversation about acting pressure, anxiety, depression, and finding your voice. Moving beyond the heavy storylines of Port Charles, the two GH actors dive into the realities of growing up in the industry, from Finn’s early days acting alongside Betty White to the brutal, fast-paced reality of soap opera production. Opening up about his mental health journey, Finn details what panic attacks feel like, his experience navigating seasonal depression, and why Zoom therapy presented unique challenges during the pandemic. Maurice reflects on the cost of method acting, his own nervous breakdowns, and why opening up about mental health is the most important step a young man can take. The duo also share the specific routines—from cold water swimming to rock climbing—that help them stay grounded and keep depression at bay.
*Photo Courtesy of Disney/Ricky Middlesworth
(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.)
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
Follow SOM, tap 5 stars, & share this episode with someone who needs it.
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/
X: https://twitter.com/mauricebenard
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MauriceBenard/
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