Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall wellness that is often overlooked and stigmatized in society. It affects people from all walks of life, regardless of their social status, age, or gender. One of the most prominent individuals to open up publicly about their struggles with mental health is the American rapper Kevin Gates.
Gates, whose real name is Kevin Jerome Gilyard, is a Louisiana-born rapper known for his emotionally charged lyrics and powerful messages. Throughout his career, he has openly discussed his struggles with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. In this article, we will take a closer look at Kevin Gates’ journey with mental health and how he has managed to overcome his struggles.
Early Life and Struggles
Kevin Gates’ early life was marked by several struggles that had a significant impact on his mental health. He was born to a dysfunctional family, with a drug-addicted mother and an absent father. Gates was forced to learn how to fend for himself at a young age, which led to him being involved in criminal activities such as selling drugs.
However, music was always his escape from the harsh reality of his life. He started rapping as a teenager and used it as an outlet to express his emotions. His music resonated with many people, especially those who could relate to his struggles, and he quickly gained a considerable following.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Despite his success as a rapper, Kevin Gates’ personal life was plagued with mental health issues. He had been struggling with depression and anxiety for many years, but it wasn’t until he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder that he sought help. He revealed his diagnosis and treatment in a series of social media posts in 2018, where he shared that he had been on medication for the previous two years.
Gates also credited therapy as a crucial factor in his journey towards better mental health. In an interview with Marc Lamont Hill, he shared that therapy helped him understand the root causes of his mental health struggles and gave him tools to manage his symptoms.
Coping Mechanisms
Aside from medication and therapy, Kevin Gates has also adopted several coping mechanisms to manage his mental health. He regularly practices meditation, which he says helps him quiet his mind and stay present in the moment. He has also discussed the importance of taking care of his physical health, such as getting enough sleep and exercise, to help alleviate his symptoms.
Music remains a critical aspect of his coping mechanisms, and Gates has spoken about how he uses his lyrics to process his emotions. He often shares his struggles and triumphs through his music, which has helped him connect with his fans on a personal level.
Stigma and Advocacy
Kevin Gates has been very vocal in his mission to destigmatize mental health issues, especially in the black community. He believes that mental health is often overlooked in the black community, and that seeking help is seen as a sign of weakness.
Gates has used his platform as a rapper to advocate for mental health awareness and encourage people to seek help. He has spoken publicly about his struggles with mental health, and how seeking treatment has saved his life. He has also been involved in several mental health initiatives and partnered with organizations that promote mental health awareness.
Conclusion
Kevin Gates’ journey with mental health is a testament to the importance of seeking help and adopting healthy coping mechanisms. Despite his struggles with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, he has managed to overcome his challenges and become a successful rapper and mental health advocate.
Gates’ story is a reminder of the importance of open and honest dialogue about mental health, to reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help. By sharing his struggles with the world, he has inspired many to prioritize their mental health and take steps towards better mental wellness.
