David Harewood: The Chilling Story Of How A Hollywood Star Lost His Mind

Oct 10, 2022 1h 32m 14 insights
David Harewood, actor and mental health advocate, discusses his experiences with racism, his father's mental health struggles, and his own psychotic breakdown at 23. He shares his journey of healing, self-discovery, and the importance of embracing one's true identity.
Actionable Insights

1. Embrace Your True Self

Accept who you are and do not abandon your core identity, as this is the only true path to happiness and self-contentment, even if it means challenging external expectations.

2. Seek Culturally Competent Therapy

When dealing with identity-related issues, seek a therapist who shares your lived experience or cultural background to gain deeper understanding and validation of your fears and insecurities.

3. Confront Past Trauma Directly

Actively engage with past traumas, even by reviewing old records, to uncover and process suppressed emotions, which is crucial for healing and self-understanding.

4. Challenge Rigid Stereotypes

Challenge societal expectations and rigid stereotypes about your identity, allowing yourself to be vulnerable and sensitive, as it’s okay not to conform to a singular ‘alpha’ image.

5. Focus on Controllables

Concentrate your energy on what you can control, such as your feelings and actions, and practice acceptance for outcomes beyond your influence to avoid resentment and maintain well-being.

6. Avoid Self-Medication for Distress

Do not use alcohol or other substances to self-medicate when feeling unwell, as this can exacerbate stress, overthinking, and lack of sleep, leading to a downward spiral.

7. Proactively Create Opportunities

Don’t wait for others to provide roles or opportunities; proactively create your own work and ventures, especially as you gain experience and seek new challenges.

8. Inspire by Being an Example

Strive to be an inspirational figure and a positive example through your actions, as your presence and achievements can motivate others, especially future generations.

9. Express Love to Children

Regularly express love, respect, and pride to your children, such as through daily goodbyes, to ensure they feel valued and secure in your affection.

10. Find Value in Trauma

Recognize that even traumatic experiences can hold valuable lessons and provide a unique perspective that can benefit your personal growth and professional endeavors.

11. Leverage Downtime for Growth

When traditional opportunities are scarce, utilize the extra time to explore new ventures, create new work, and meet new people, turning downtime into a period of exciting growth.

12. Choose Acceptance, Not Resentment

Actively choose the path of acceptance over resentment when faced with life’s challenges, as this mindset helps attract positive outcomes and fosters excitement for the future.

13. Prioritize Self-Care for Rocky Times

Prepare yourself for inevitable tough times in life and career by prioritizing self-care, as failures often provide the best lessons for growth.

14. Strive for Excellence

Commit to bringing excellence to everything you do, ensuring high standards in your work and projects, especially when collaborating with others.