Joe Jonas Reveals Seeking Therapy After Album's Underperformance
Joe Jonas opened up about the personal challenges he faced after his 2011 solo debut, "Fastlife," revealing that its commercial performance led to panic attacks and a reluctant turn to therapy. He eventually found renewed success with DNCE and the Jonas Brothers' reunion, achieving chart-topping hits that had previously eluded him.
Joe Jonas recently disclosed the profound personal struggles he endured following the disappointing commercial reception of his 2011 solo debut album, Fastlife. The singer revealed that the album's outcome triggered a period of intense anxiety, manifesting as panic attacks and physical pain, ultimately prompting him to seek professional therapy.
During a candid discussion on the Hey Jonas! podcast, which he co-hosts with his brothers and bandmates Nick and Kevin Jonas, Joe reflected on his expectations for the record. He admitted to tying his self-worth directly to the album's potential success, believing that if it matched the Jonas Brothers' peak achievements, then “I matter.” However, Fastlife only managed to reach No. 15 on the Billboard 200, and its lead single, “See No More,” peaked at No. 92 on the Hot 100. These results were deeply deflating for Jonas.
Recalling the period, Jonas stated, “I started having panic attacks and started having physical pain.” Despite a doctor confirming his physical health and recommending therapy, Jonas initially resisted the suggestion. He questioned the need for therapy, stating, “I was like, what do you mean a therapist? I don’t need a therapist. Why would I need a therapist?” Instead of therapy, he sought solace in long bike rides as a way to disconnect from his phone and the pressures he felt.
However, Jonas eventually found a significant commercial resurgence in his career. In 2015, he formed the funk-pop band DNCE. Their debut single, “Cake by the Ocean,” became a massive mainstream radio hit, climbing to No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. This success had notably eluded both his solo career and, at that point, the Jonas Brothers themselves.
Further reinforcing his return to prominence, the Jonas Brothers reunited in 2019. Their comeback album, Happiness Begins, soared to the top of the Billboard 200, led by their first-ever chart-topping single on the Hot 100, “Sucker.” This marked a triumphant return for the family band, solidifying Joe Jonas's journey from personal struggle to renewed artistic and commercial success.