17 Deep Conversations About Mental Health We Had in 2020

2020 was difficult on us all. We struggled with indoor stir crazies, WFH burnout, and election stress and anxiety. The result? A September 2020 study found that one in four Americans struggled with depression this year, more than three times that before the pandemic.

 

But all along the way, Men's Health was there to help guide you through the longest 12 months ever. Each Friday, we spoke with psychiatrists and entertainers to find out how they lived, worked, and kept sane during a difficult year. Some sought therapy, others relied on self-care apps for a mental boost. To help guide your journey to better mental health, and take on 2021 in full-force, below, a few of our favorite Friday Sessions from the past year.

 

Why addressing your mental health starts with you？
 

Singer Two Feet has struggled with depression. He said recovery doesn't happen overnight and finding your own way of coping—rather than following someone else's recommendation—might be what’s best for you.

 

How to stay motivated in a pandemic？
 

In quarantine, it can be difficult to have any sense of structure to your work day. Musician Bazzi discussed the importance of valuing your mental health (and why putting down your phone might be the first step).

 

How to work on your recovery in quarantine？
 

Overcoming addiction is a hard-fought journey; a seemingly never-ending pandemic likely didn't help. Writer Sam Lansky talked how to deal with depression and maintain sobriety when you can't leave your home.

 

Why having an open dialogue on race starts with honesty？
 

After the murders of Black Americans including George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, Dr. Gregory Scott Brown, M.D., discussed racial barriers in the U.S.—and how to begin conversations on race with your peers.

 

How to feel comfortable discussing your mental health？
 

Sue Varma, M.D., trauma and depression psychiatrist, discussed how you can overcome the anxiety of talking about your emotions to get the help you need.

 

Normalizing expression of emotions for men is key to suicide prevention.
 

Talking about suicide can be difficult and uncomfortable. Christine Moutier, M.D., chief medical officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention talked about the stigma that surrounds men sharing emotions and how to spot someone who might be suicidal.

 

Why more therapists of color are necessary to serve more communities?
 

Two psychiatrists, Zeshen Wu, M.D., and Gregory Scott Brown, M.D., discussed the importance of diversity in medical professionals and how it can help alleviate cultural stigmas surrounding therapy and wellness.

 

Making others feel valued can improve your well-being.
 

Rapper and philanthropist Jeezy has learned many lessons about mental health throughout his career. He chatted with Drew Ramsey, M.D, about the positive impact he has on others and how that allows him to build a better life for himself.

 

Why therapy can be a vital step toward relieving pressure on yourself?
 

It can take time before you realize your mental health needs a boost. Former NFL player Marcus Smith shared the impact of pressures he placed on himself and how to feel comfortable seeking help.

 

How therapy can help those suffering from PTSD?
 

Musician G Herbo experienced trauma at 9 years old. He shared what helped him overcome his PTSD and how that pushed him to start his own mental health initiative for children in need of therapy.

 

Finding a strong support system is key for your mental state.
 

Pose star Dyllón Burnside has experience when it comes to learning self-acceptance. He spoke about navigating his queerness and how to find your safe space to take care of your mental health.

 

How television and film can help start mental health conversations？
 

Actress Lorraine Braco has been pretty public about her battle with depression. In a conversation with Drew Ramsey, M.D., she discussed the need for men on-screen to seek therapy.

 

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How establishing your own wellness routine can benefit your mental health?
 

Singer Mario shared how he maintains his mental health well-being and offered tips on how to start your own self-care journey.