Shawn Mendes talks therapy, fame, and love's 'psychological toll' with John Mayer

In the latest episode of How’s Life With John Mayer on SiriusXM, John Mayer and Shawn Mendes opened up about the emotional challenges of having their personal lives intertwined with music hits. Mayer noted the “psychological toll” of being the inspiration behind songs that expose private moments, acknowledging the unique pressures that come with fame.

“You and I are both talking as people who’ve heard songs that — at least other people are saying — are references to us,” he shared. Mendes agreed, saying, “It sucks to feel like … It’s a funny feeling to feel like you’re being written about, and maybe the whole picture’s not being expressed.”

The two artists, both linked to high-profile relationships, reflected on how difficult it can be to find a therapist who relates to their experiences. Mayer quipped, “You talk to a therapist and go, ‘You ever seen your ex-girlfriend on a billboard before?’ Let me tell you, it’s a weird two weeks.” Mendes echoed this sentiment, saying the pain of being in the spotlight doesn’t outweigh the joy of falling in love. He also shared a broader takeaway: “No one gets out of this life without getting hurt, and no one gets out of this life without hurting someone.”

This deeply introspective conversation adds another layer to Mendes’ earlier revelation when Mayer Mayer asked what he might have pursued if not music. To this, the Stitches singer responded by saying, “I might just become a therapist, like, in a small town.”