Big Sean, the renowned rapper, has frequently been open about his struggles with mental well-being. Following the tragic passing of his close friend and musical collaborator, Nipsey Hussle, in 2019, Sean began a journey of healing, openly discussing his battles with depression and anxiety and his decision to seek professional therapy. Now, he bravely reflects on the personal strength required to speak so frankly about such a deeply personal and often stigmatized issue.
Rapper's Candid Journey: Overcoming Mental Health Challenges and Prioritizing Well-being
In a recent exclusive interview for ABC News' 'All Access,' hosted by Linsey Davis, Big Sean, alongside fellow artist Usher, delved into the difficulties of discussing mental health within the Black community, where it is often considered a taboo subject. Sean confessed that his initial vulnerability wasn't driven by a desire to become a mental health advocate, but rather a simple need to express his internal struggles. He described hitting a metaphorical 'wall' in his life, a period of profound emotional highs and lows, and a deep-seated depression that surpassed even his adolescent experiences. During this challenging time, the artist realized he had become so consumed by his professional life that he had lost touch with his true self. This profound realization led him to make a crucial decision: to temporarily step away from the music industry, which had been his primary focus, and instead prioritize his own well-being. This period of introspection and self-focus spanned four years, culminating in the release of his latest album, 'Better Me Than You,' a follow-up to 2020's 'Detroit 2.' Sean also highlighted the importance of consciously making time for joy and leisure, noting that 'you got to be serious about having fun.' This profound lesson, among many others, emerged from his journey of self-discovery, leaving him with a deep sense of gratitude and contentment.
Big Sean's honesty serves as a powerful reminder that mental health struggles affect everyone, regardless of their public persona or success. His decision to share his story not only destigmatizes mental health conversations, particularly within communities where such topics are often avoided, but also underscores the vital importance of self-care. It emphasizes that taking time for personal healing and prioritizing one's well-being is not a weakness, but a courageous act that can lead to profound growth and a renewed appreciation for life.