Entertainment Journalist Jonathon 'J-Mo' Moran Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles in New Book

Jonathon 'J-Mo' Moran, a well-known figure in the entertainment journalism world, has taken a bold step by sharing his personal struggles with mental health in a new book titled Mental as Anyone. The book, co-written with psychologist Dr. Jodie Lowinger, is a candid and heartfelt exploration of his journey, filled with both pain and hope.

From the moment J-Mo stepped into the spotlight, he was anything but ordinary. Known for his vibrant style and infectious personality, he stood out in a world of monotony. His charm, however, was often a mask for deeper struggles. J-Mo has always been open about his life, but this new book marks a significant shift in his storytelling.

The book is part memoir and part mental health toolkit, offering readers a glimpse into J-Mo's life. He discusses everything from the sexual abuse he endured to his battle with depression and the fact that he estimates he has slept with over 1000 men. It's a raw and unflinching account, but J-Mo says the process of writing it was ultimately liberating.

"It was really difficult to reflect on the sexual abuse because it forced me to relive it in ways I've kind of avoided, despite the fact I've had lots of therapy," J-Mo said. "The only times I've relived that is within nightmares. It was so vivid in my mind." Despite the challenges, he was determined to be honest and only omitted details that could potentially harm others.

"There were a couple of things I didn't include to protect their feelings," he explained. "But aside from that, I was happy to air it all." J-Mo also shared how he's often seen as the life of the party, but in reality, he has a dark underbelly that he's learned to embrace.

"If you really know me, you know," he said with a laugh. "Everyone is dealing with something, and this book is about not hiding from it and embracing it." He acknowledges that his honesty goes against the traditional 'harden up, blokey' culture but takes pride in it.

The book also includes lighter moments, such as his encounters with celebrities like Madonna and his own experiences with relationships. J-Mo has found real happiness with his long-term partner, Alex, and shares how their relationship has brought him a sense of completeness.

"Sex for me until I met my partner was just an exchange. It wasn't something valued," he said. "The minute I met my partner Alex, I knew he was the one." Despite the challenges, J-Mo admits that relationships aren't always easy, but he feels that Alex makes him feel complete.

"Sometimes he makes me feel like s*** when he hasn't done the dishes, but he makes me feel complete," he joked. Ultimately, the book is a testament to the idea that nothing is perfect, and that everyone is a work in progress.

"I feel I'm very much a work in progress. The book isn't saying I'm all aces, it is saying we're all works in progress," J-Mo said. Mental as Anyone is published by Wiley and is available now.