Stay Strong, Asher! Asher (Danny) Opens Up About His ADHD and Heartfelt Decision to Leave GH for Treatment

In a brave and honest revelation, teen actor Asher Antonyzyn, known for his role as Danny Morgan on General Hospital, has opened up about his personal struggle with ADHD and the difficult decision to step away from the show to focus on his mental health and well-being.

The 16-year-old actor shared his experience during a heartfelt appearance on State of Mind, a mental health-focused podcast hosted by his General Hospital co-star Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos). Asher spoke candidly about living with ADHD and how it affects his daily life—both on set and off.

“I have pretty strong ADHD,” Asher said. “I take medication for it, which helps me to chill out and focus.” He went on to explain that staying focused without medication is extremely difficult, especially when it comes to keeping up with schoolwork. “If I don’t take it, I just get distracted. My brain goes in a million directions.”

His openness touched many fans, especially young viewers dealing with similar struggles. He also mentioned that his friends could instantly tell when he hadn’t taken his medication, even during weekends when he occasionally gives himself a break from it.

Beyond his diagnosis, Asher also spoke about the pressure of juggling school, acting, and a long-distance commute between his home in Chicago and filming in Los Angeles. While grateful for the opportunity to portray Danny Morgan, he admitted the demands had become overwhelming.

“I couldn’t be myself anymore,” he said. “It was hard to keep up with everything—school, acting, health—and I knew I had to take a step back.” With that clarity, Asher made the heartfelt decision to leave General Hospital temporarily to prioritize treatment, stability, and self-care.

Asher first took over the role of Danny in late 2023 and was warmly welcomed by fans for his maturity and natural on-screen presence. Though he hasn’t been on the show long, his portrayal quickly left a lasting impression.

ABC and the General Hospital production team have not yet released a formal statement regarding the character’s future or any potential recasting. However, fans hope that Danny’s departure from the screen will be written in a way that leaves the door open for Asher’s return.

Reactions from fans have been overwhelmingly positive and supportive. Across social media platforms, many praised the young actor’s courage and maturity. “It takes strength to speak up like this,” one fan wrote. “Mental health comes first. We’ll be here when you’re ready to come back.”

Maurice Benard also offered his encouragement, calling Asher “a talented young actor with a good head on his shoulders.” He emphasized the importance of supporting young people in the industry as they learn to prioritize their well-being.

Asher Antonyzyn’s decision is a powerful reminder that stepping back is not a sign of weakness—it’s a courageous choice to grow, heal, and protect one’s mental health. His honesty and bravery have already made an impact far beyond the screen.

Stay strong, Asher. We’ll be cheering you on—on and off the screen.