Chapter 1: Understanding Mental Health Management

In recent times, I've come across numerous posts about burnout and mental health that suggest simple solutions like, "You just need to be more self-aware," or "Pursue your passion for happiness." These notions imply that we have total control over our lives and can remedy everything with just a few easy steps. However, the reality is quite different.

Life doesn't conform to our expectations. There was a time when I believed sheer willpower and passion could shape my existence. Yet, life has a way of humbling us. No matter how meticulously we plan or how fiercely we strive, unforeseen challenges will inevitably arise, disrupting our balance.

Over the past nine years, I've genuinely grasped the essence of the phrase, "Life happens." Family conflicts emerge, businesses fold, health issues arise unexpectedly, mental well-being deteriorates, and suicidal thoughts may creep in after a long battle. It can be disheartening when you invest your soul into your craft, only to find that depression and perfectionism have returned, overshadowing any progress made.

Just when you think you're making headway, the burden can become overwhelming. For me, that burden can feel insurmountable. In August, I found myself spiraling back into suicidal ideation after years of struggling to stay above water. Despite utilizing all the tools I'd acquired—therapy, self-care, and coping strategies—the darkness reemerged.

Sometimes, it feels like there's no escape from it. However, I've come to a realization that is both humbling and oddly comforting: you don't "defeat" mental health challenges—be it depression, burnout, or anxiety. Instead, you learn to carry them. You manage them daily.

Some days are uplifting; others can be quite challenging, and that's perfectly acceptable. If you're a musician grappling with the pressures of perfectionism, burnout, and mental health struggles, remember this: you are not alone in feeling defeated simply because you continue to struggle. Many people are quick to offer "solutions," yet sometimes, no amount of advice can fully alleviate the pain or fatigue.

What truly matters is your perseverance. Life is challenging enough without the added pressure we often place on ourselves to "get over" our struggles. As artists, we frequently feel the weight of needing to be "better" or to have moved past our difficulties.

Perhaps it's time to shift our perspective. Maybe it's not about overcoming obstacles but rather managing what we carry, one day at a time. And that is more than sufficient.

The first video highlights the possibility of overcoming mental health challenges, featuring insights from various perspectives that can offer hope and understanding.

Chapter 2: The Importance of Community and Support

As artists, we often feel isolated in our struggles. However, reaching out for support can make a world of difference. It's essential to surround ourselves with people who understand what we're going through and can offer empathy rather than quick fixes.

The second video features Charlamagne tha God and Jay Shetty discussing ways to overcome mental health issues, anxiety, and life's challenges. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of community and support in the journey toward mental well-being.