Her new Stepping Into The Shade Room interview revisits her diagnoses and therapy.
This is part of a discussion Tisha Campbell had already brought into public view before November. In an October 20 episode of If You Knew Better with Amber Grimes, she described the work of understanding herself beyond the performer audiences have known for decades.
Campbell spoke about therapy, people-pleasing and the effort to stop hiding difficult feelings behind an outwardly cheerful presentation. She also discussed how writing and stand-up comedy had given her different ways to process her experiences.
Her account connects with the release of The A Word, her memoir about raising her son Xen and navigating autism within her family. The National Association of Black Bookstores lists September 15 as the publication date and describes a book that addresses therapies, education, misconceptions and the importance of community.
That history matters. The new interview adds to an ongoing conversation; it should not be framed as the first time Campbell disclosed her diagnoses.
For adults who recognize parts of their own experiences in her account, the National Institute of Mental Health recommends discussing concerns with a health care provider and asking about an autism evaluation. Adult assessment can be complicated because some characteristics overlap with conditions such as anxiety or ADHD.
NIMH also notes that an accurate diagnosis can help adults better understand past challenges, identify strengths and find appropriate support. A celebrity interview may prompt a question, but an individual evaluation is the step that can answer it.
Readers interested in Campbell’s family story can explore The A Word through the Black-owned bookstores listed by the National Association of Black Bookstores.
Her willingness to revisit these subjects gives audiences something more personal than a familiar sitcom role: an account of a woman learning how she wants to live and be understood.
Photos: Tisha Campbell (@iamtishacampbell) via Instagram · Book cover: Amistad Books
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