Depression Nearly Cost Them Their Lives

With their wealth, expensive cars, social status and opulent lifestyles, one can only assume that celebrities have it all!   It's easily possible to assume that having everything together brings you unending joy, and yet many celebrities have publicly admitted to not having everything together when it comes to their private lives.

Celebrities are not immune to mental illness, despite their glitz and glamour, wealth, and fame and fortune. One could even argue that the pressure to be perfect, as well as the lifestyle that comes with celebrity, contribute to depression, making our favorite celebrities feel more anxious, lonely, empty, and unsatisfied.

We've put together a list of a few of our current favourite Kenyan celebrities who have overcome the condition. These celebrities have shown that depression is nothing to be ashamed of, and that mental illness can affect any and everyone, regardless of economic status.

Linet Munyali, professionally known as Size 8, is the first public figure on our list. She is well-known in Kenya as a singer, songwriter, and actress. The secular-turned-gospel artist has been open about her feelings of hopelessness and dissatisfaction with her music career and purpose. The actress has stated in numerous interviews that she has battles depression on a regular basis since becoming a celebrity. We could only hope that Size 8's new direction as an ordained minister keeps her enlightened and that she overcomes her depression.

Social media influencer, businesswoman, and Jackie Matubia, a  has battled depression as well. Jackie suffered from postpartum depression following the birth of her first child, which nearly ended her marriage. The actor admitted to feeling overwhelmed, having self-doubts, and having low self-esteem. Jackie was fortunate to have the support of close family and friends, which enabled her to fight her way back to health. Jackie is expecting her second child, and we wish her a joyful and healthy pregnancy.

The next person on our list is Grace Ekirapa, a television personality, media figure, and psychologist. The TV host suffered from severe bouts of depression, which led to two suicide attempts. Despite the fact that both of these attempts occurred before she became famous, she now uses her voice and platforms to advocate for mental health.

Mejja, a Kenyan rap artist and gengetone musician, has also been included on the list. Following his divorce, the father of one revealed that he was depressed and tried to commit suicide. Fortunately, he did not go down that road and rather became an advocate for open and constructive dialogue about depression and mental health, especially among boys and men.

We can only hope that their stories will inspire anyone reading this who is struggling with similar mental health issues.