Kenyan comedian Oga Obinna has courageously opened up about his struggles with mental health, revealing that he has attempted suicide twice in his past. His candid confession is part of a broader effort to raise awareness about mental health, particularly among men who often suffer in silence.
During a recent mental health awareness walk, Obinna shared his personal experiences with depression and financial difficulties, which once led him to believe that suicide was his only escape. “I’ve been poor, and I’ve thought about ending it all, but I never gave up. Look at me now and realize that it is possible,” Obinna said, addressing those who might be going through similar challenges.
Obinna’s story is one of resilience and determination. He emphasized that those who have never faced extreme hardships might not fully understand the depth of his struggles. However, his message was clear: no matter how dark life may seem, there is always hope.
The comedian’s openness about his mental health is significant, especially in a society where men are often expected to remain stoic and avoid showing vulnerability. Obinna acknowledged this cultural expectation but emphasized the importance of breaking the silence. “I’m not claiming to have all the answers for men,” he explained, “but I’ve created a platform for them to find their voice and understand that they are not alone.”
In a separate interview, Obinna reflected on the valuable lessons he has learned throughout his journey. “I’ve made mistakes and learned many lessons,” he said. “But patience, planning, hard work, persistence, discipline, and consistency have been key.”
Obinna’s message extends beyond his personal struggles. He encouraged people to take risks in life rather than strictly adhering to societal norms. “Don’t be afraid to explore. Many will tell you to stay in your lane, but who defines that lane— you or them? Be daring, be curious, be experimental. No one has the perfect blueprint for life,” he advised.
While Obinna acknowledged that some days will undoubtedly be tough, he urged those feeling overwhelmed not to consider suicide as an escape. “It’s not easy to make it by the book. It takes time, and you might feel pressured, stressed, or even depressed. Like me, you might consider suicide as an easy way out—don’t do it, you’ll only let them win,” he warned.
Obinna also highlighted the devastating impact that suicide can have on loved ones, urging anyone considering it to rethink their decision. “Suicide causes immense pain and suffering to those who care about you. Please, don’t go down that path,” he pleaded.
Reflecting on his journey, Obinna shared a valuable lesson he’s learned: “I’ve owned a lot, from cars to houses to land. But I’ve learned that celebrating every win and not explaining yourself to anyone brings satisfaction. However, there’s more joy in giving than receiving, especially when it’s done quietly and without seeking attention.”
Oga Obinna’s story serves as a powerful reminder that mental health struggles are real and that seeking help and speaking out can be life-saving. His bravery in sharing his story offers hope to others who may be battling similar demons, reminding them that no matter how difficult life gets, brighter days are always ahead.
