Nairobi News

Media sensation King Kalala, celebrated for her vibrant personality, recently unveiled her hidden battle with depression in a candid interview with Oga Obinna.

In her own words, Kalala admits, “I used to think depression is not real.” This common misconception plagued her until the day it struck her with unrelenting force. She initially regarded depression as a mere signal from her body, urging her to make changes in her life. However, when it finally ensnared her, her perception shifted drastically.

For an entire month, Kalala was incapacitated. She recounts, “I did not go to work. I used to sit in the house and cry, the bed was my resting place. Even taking a shower felt painful.” The relentless grip of depression had rendered her helpless, casting her into a dark abyss of despair.

The irony of her situation was compounded by her fame. As a media personality, Kalala found herself isolated in her suffering, unsure of whom to confide in. “I did not know who to talk to,” she confesses. “Being Kalala, I do not know who is my friend and who likes the idea of being my friend.” Her fame had created a barrier between her and genuine human connection, leaving her feeling adrift in a sea of uncertainty.

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Kalala’s firsthand experience has given her profound insight into the agonizing ordeal that is depression. She emphatically states, “I would not wish depression on anyone; depression is your brain bullying you. I have been there, and it is a very dark place.” Her message serves as a powerful reminder that, regardless of status or success, mental health struggles can touch anyone.

In her interview, Kalala also highlighted the deceptive nature of social media, urging caution in the way we perceive the lives of others online

Depression manifests in various forms, including major depression, melancholia, psychotic depression, antenatal and postnatal depression, dysthymic disorder, bipolar disorder, and cyclothymic disorder. Recognizing the signs of depression is crucial for early intervention. These signs encompass poor concentration, overwhelming feelings of guilt or low self-worth, a pervasive sense of hopelessness about the future, thoughts of self-harm or suicide, disrupted sleep patterns, changes in appetite or weight, and an overwhelming sense of fatigue or listlessness.

King Kalala’s openness about her battle with depression serves as a beacon of hope for those who may be silently suffering. Her story underscores the importance of seeking help and fostering genuine connections with others, as well as the need to dispel the misconceptions surrounding mental health issues. Depression is real, and it can affect anyone, regardless of their outward appearance or accomplishments. By sharing her journey, Kalala encourages us all to confront the darkness of depression and to offer support to those who need it most.