South African media personality and YouTube star Lasizwe Dambuza has checked himself into a mental health wellness centre, citing the need to “recharge” after what he described as a “wild” year.
Dambuza took to Instagram on Monday to share the news, posting a screenshot of a note written on his phone.
“It’s that time of the year when my phone battery is extremely low, except this time, IT’S ME,” he wrote.
“My mental health is my battery and I’ve checked myself into a mental wellness facility to recharge so I can show up and perform at my best.”
Reflecting on the toll of the past year, the ‘Awkward Dates’ creator said while the year brought success, it also came with challenges.
“Awkward Dates blew up in ways I never imagined, but with all those highs, there’s been some heavy sh*t too. I struggle with impostor syndrome and my personal life took some knocks, good and bad. It’s been a lot to carry and I realised I need help processing everything.”
The YouTuber opened up about not having parents to turn to for support.
“I don’t have parents to turn to … no mom, no dad to call up when life hits, so this is my outlet. I’m here with psychologists, therapists and psychiatrists to work through it all. Let me just say this: asking for help doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken. It’s actually the strongest thing you can do.”
Encouraging his followers to prioritise their mental health, Dambuza added: “When your body or your mind tells you it needs you, listen. Don’t push that sh*t aside. Talk to someone, a friend, family, or a pro. Recharge yourself, because, at the end of the day, nobody’s gonna take care of you the way you can.”
In the caption accompanying his post, Dambuza confirmed that his team would take over his social media during his absence.
“I’ve successfully checked myself into a mental health wellness centre. It’s been a beautiful long year. Time to rest, recharge and reflect. My team will be taking over my social media accounts after this post as the show has to go on.”
He also thanked his siblings for supporting him.
“Thank you to my siblings! Thank you for dropping me off here and holding my hand during the check-in process!”
This is not the first time Dambuza has prioritised his mental health. In 2021, he checked himself into a wellness facility after battling depression.
At the time, he shared on social media, “I haven’t been okay for the past months. I have been so depressed. I have decided to fight this by taking a break and dealing with this 1-on-1.”
Dambuza’s decision comes just days after celebrating a major career milestone – reaching one million subscribers on YouTube. – IOL Lifestyle
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
