Wayne Brady, the beloved comedian and actor, has bravely opened up about his long struggle with depression, shedding light on the challenges men face when discussing mental health. In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Brady revealed that he experienced a significant breakdown, which prompted him to confront his mental health issues head-on. He highlighted the societal pressures that discourage men from expressing their emotions, stating, “It’s difficult for men in general because of just the way that we’re raised.”
Brady emphasized the stigma surrounding vulnerability, noting that admitting to feelings of sadness or despair can be perceived as weakness. “What kind of man would I sound like if I told somebody, ‘Hey, I am so sad, I can’t get out of bed’?” he questioned, illustrating the internal conflict many men experience when considering seeking help. This silence surrounding emotional struggles can have dire consequences, as the suicide rate among men is significantly higher than that of women.
In response to these issues, the non-profit organization Bring Change to Mind has launched the #StrongerThanStigma campaign, which aims to foster open conversations about mental health and encourage men to seek help. The initiative highlights that while one in four adults will experience a mental illness in a given year, nearly two-thirds do not pursue treatment, particularly among men.
Joining Brady in this vital campaign are notable figures such as singer-songwriter Michael Angelicos, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Edmonton Oilers goalie Ben Scrivens, who has advocated for those diagnosed with schizophrenia. Chicago Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall, who has openly discussed his own mental health challenges, co-produced a public service announcement for the initiative, stressing the importance of confronting the stigma surrounding brain health.
As Wayne Brady continues to share his story, he hopes to inspire others to break the silence and seek the support they need. “It’s okay to talk about it,” he asserts, reinforcing the message that vulnerability can lead to healing and understanding.