Lee Sang-min Opens Up About His Struggles with Panic Disorder on 'My Little Old Boy'

In a recent episode of SBS's variety show My Little Old Boy (미운우리새끼), Lee Sang-min shared his ongoing battle with panic disorder. During the broadcast on January 19, 2025, he expressed his concerns, stating, "I need to sleep well tonight," revealing that his condition often disrupts his sleep. He mentioned, "I find it more comfortable at home or in the car due to my panic disorder," and noted that while medication helps, he is currently trying to reduce his reliance on it after over a decade of use due to high dependency. His close friends, Shin Dong-yup and Seo Jang-hoon, acknowledged his struggles, saying, "He has suffered from panic disorder for more than ten years."

The episode depicted Lee visiting a mental health clinic, where he shared his efforts to minimize his use of sleeping pills. He recounted that his panic disorder began after a breakup in late 2013, compounded by financial pressures from wage garnishments that led to increased anxiety. Initially starting with two pills, he now finds himself taking eight to ten pills before bed. Lee explained, "I drink two cups of coffee before going on air because the medication makes me drowsy," which in turn exacerbates his condition, leading him to take more medication. He expressed a desire to venture outside without relying on medication, to which the hosts remarked, "Panic is a warning alarm system for danger," as they discussed the various aspects of his mental health challenges.