‘Everybody Is Fighting Demons’: Dwayne Johnson Stresses Importance Of Mental Health Check-Ins On Loved Ones And Strangers On World Mental Health Day

As an ardent fan of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, I can’t help but admire his bravery and vulnerability in addressing the sensitive topic of mental health. His personal experiences, shared openly, serve as a powerful testament to the importance of checking on our loved ones, even during their darkest moments. It’s heartening to see someone of such global influence using their platform to spread awareness about this often overlooked aspect of human well-being.


Dwayne Johnson is encouraging everyone to prioritize their mental well-being, as well as that of those close to them. On October 10th, the star from Moana posted a video on Instagram for World Mental Health Day, emphasizing the importance of not ignoring loved ones during difficult times and extending support when needed, if one encounters similar challenging feelings themselves.

“Everyone has their struggles, and many people hide them. Many people don’t discuss these issues, and I’ve discovered this truth through tough experiences over time. When I reach out to my friends, I don’t ask, ‘What’s wrong?’ Instead, I ask, ‘How are you doing emotionally? How are you feeling?’

The Rock said people would be surprised to know what that means to others.

Drawing from his own encounters, Johnson expressed understanding of battling mental health issues and the downward spiral they can cause. He referred to these periods as “episodes of ‘mental turmoil’.” In a video, the professional wrestler and actor shared an instance where he woke up feeling and seeing the world in shades of gray. Despite being accustomed to solitude as an only child, the persistent sense of loneliness eventually overwhelmed him. By the end of the day, he found himself reaching out to his friends for assistance.

He strongly urged, “Don’t forget to touch base with your friends.” Sharing his personal experiences, he mentioned that neglecting to do so had tragic consequences for some of his friends. Johnson stressed, “Reach out to your friends, family, even acquaintances. And remember, it’s equally crucial—if not more so—to check in on yourself.” The Fast and Furious star viewed this ability to connect with others as a powerful gift.

For several years, Johnson has candidly shared his experiences with mental health challenges, which include fighting depression on numerous occasions throughout his life.

In May 2023, on The Pivot podcast, the celebrity admitted that while he now possesses emotional skills to cope with his mental distress, years earlier, he was utterly clueless about dealing with such challenges. The actor emphasized that being a father to his three daughters, Tiana (age 6), Jasmine (age 8), and Simone (age 23) proved to be a lifesaver during his tough periods.

If you’re aware of someone experiencing depression or a severe mental health issue, don’t hesitate to contact a local healthcare professional, counselor, or mental health organization for prompt assistance. You can find numerous hotlines offering support in such cases.

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2024-10-11 09:39