South African rapper Cassper Nyovest reveals his mental health struggles
Multiple award-winning South African artiste Cassper Nyovest has laid bare his battles with depression and anxiety.
In a post on X, the rapper whose real name is Refiloe Phoolo, attributed his struggles to personal factors, including his ego.
He described a period in his life of mental and emotional decline, marked by feelings of emptiness and other personal battles.
“I went through so much in the past two years. Mentally, I was drained, and I was burnt out. I felt unsafe because of threats, and I even got bodyguards. (I) was diagnosed with depression and anxiety,” the rapper said.
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However, he said he has overcome the mental health challenges through his newfound faith in Christianity.
“I really couldn’t see the light, and I couldn’t control my mind. At some point, I ran to Jesus, and he healed me. I would like to say Thank you, Jesus! You are my lord and saviour!” he said.
“I would like to declare, yet again, that Jesus Christ is the sole reason for my life being spared and fruitful. Through many situations, he saved me. Only by God’s grace, I’m alive and in my right mind,” he went on.
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Nyovest has been vocal about his deepening faith since December 2023. This commitment culminated in his public baptism earlier this year.
“A lot of people have been asking me why I’m quiet and what’s going on. Just to give you a summary, I went through a reset, and I realised what life is and (what my) purpose in this life (is). I’m not ashamed to say that my soul was washed by the blood of Jesus. I’m not ashamed of the gospel, and I will be unpacking it more and more as time goes,” he declared.
Beyond his musical career, the 33-year-old artiste is also the CEO of his record label, Family Tree Media.
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His artistic talent has been recognised internationally. He was the recipient the Best African Act at the 2014 International Viewer’s Choice Awards.
He has also received nominations at the BET Awards, adding to his numerous accolades within South Africa.
Known for his energetic performances and glamorous lifestyle, Nyovest’s transparency about his mental health struggles challenges stereotypes and opens a conversation about the realities faced by many.