Guardian Angel: Marrying right has helped me escape depression
Award-winning gospel singer Guardian Angel has long been known for his powerful voice and inspirational lyrics. But beyond music, he has become a vocal advocate for mental health, especially among men.
Speaking at the recent Men’s Mental Health Awareness Concert organized by comedian Oga Obinna, the Hadithi hitmaker spoke candidly about the challenges men face when dealing with mental health issues.
According to the singer, societal expectations often leave men feeling isolated and reluctant to seek help.
“Most men find it hard to open up when they are going through challenges because they are afraid of being judged harshly,” Guardian Angel shared during the event.
He further added;
“I am mentally okay, but the problem is that I might be okay while others out here are not. My work revolves around God and what He has given me to do. I can’t sing for myself, I have to sing for other people and that’s why I’m here”.
Guardian Angel went on to explain how societal pressure to ‘man up’ contributes to men’s mental health problems.
“Some things are not about being a man. Most men are afraid to talk about their mental health problems and so they go unnoticed. Men try to be ‘real men’ but end up depressed. I have had low points, but I have not had mental health issues.
The gospel artist attributed his mental well-being to his choice of partner. Guardian, 33 has been married to his 53-year-old wife Esther Musila for two years now.
“I think marrying the right person has helped me escape depression. Having someone who can listen to you is very great because you are always sane and there is no drama about where you have been or where you are going. I have a lot of peace in my marriage. I pray a lot when things are not going well, which has also helped me”.
Also Read: Esther Musila: I didn’t enjoy my first marriage, then came Guardian Angel
At a past event, Guardian Angel also reflected on the struggles of celebrities, many of whom, he noted, are prone to depression.
Speaking at the launch of the Nuhealth Medical Centre, a new rehabilitation facility in Kitisuru, the singer said he had seen friends fall into depression due to the pressures of fame and the lure of drugs.
“I once gave a friend of mine Sh10,000 and 24 hours later he could not remember who gave him the money. He was once a celebrated musician, but his talent was wasted on drugs.