Actor and mental health advocate David Harewood discusses his personal experience with psychosis, the concept of post-traumatic growth, and how it changed his perception of his father. They also explore the impact of lockdown on self-reflection, the negative effects of consuming low-quality content, and the importance of human connections.
Psychosis is often seen as a 'scary' mental health issue and needs more understanding and awareness.
Exploring trauma and embracing moments of post-traumatic growth can lead to self-acceptance and a deeper sense of belonging.
David Harewood highlights the need to break down stigma surrounding psychosis and encourage open conversations about mental health.
Deep dives
David Hairwood's Experience with Psychosis
David Hairwood, a successful stage and screen actor, opens up about his experience with psychosis. He discusses the hallucinations and delusions he faced, including hearing Martin Luther King's voice in his head. David shares how his psychosis affected his life and career and the shock he experienced when he realized the severity of his condition. He also explores the role of racism in his trauma and how it shaped his confusion and identity struggles. David's journey of self-exploration and acceptance is reflected in his book, 'Maybe I Don't Belong Here', which delves into his diagnosis and the impact of his breakdown.
David's Journey of Self-Discovery and Post-Traumatic Growth
David reflects on how his breakdown and subsequent exploration of his trauma have led to moments of post-traumatic growth. He discusses facing his darkest moments and fears, acknowledging his pain and trauma, and reconnecting with his core self. Through this process, David has found a deeper sense of belonging and joy in the simple aspects of life. He emphasizes the importance of sitting with one's own loneliness, opening up about mental health struggles, and seeking help when needed.
Breaking Down Stigma Around Psychosis
David highlights the stigma that surrounds psychosis and emphasizes the need to break down misconceptions and stereotypes. He shares his own experiences of hearing voices and experiencing hallucinations, challenging the notion that psychosis is solely associated with being 'mad' or 'crazy'. David encourages open conversations about mental health and the importance of seeking understanding and support.
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
David and Fern discuss the negative impact of social media on mental health, particularly for young people. They express concerns about the constant exposure to unhealthy comparisons, toxic content, and the addictive nature of social media. They emphasize the need for boundaries, selective exposure, and prioritizing mental well-being when engaging with digital platforms.
The Power of Connecting and Sharing Experiences
David shares the positive impact of connecting with others who have experienced similar struggles. He discusses the power of empathy and vulnerability, recounting encounters with individuals who reached out to him after his documentary. David encourages open conversations about mental health to foster understanding and provide support to those who may feel isolated.
Psychosis is very rarely talked about, even within spaces dedicated to mental health. Actor David Harewood had an episode that saw him sectioned at 23 years old, and wonders that psychosis is still seen as the ‘scary’ mental health issue, a perception he’s now working hard to change.
We often hear about post-traumatic stress, but in this chat with Fearne, David discusses the concept of post traumatic growth, and what that’s looked like for him. Plus, he explores how this journey of discovery has changed his perception of his father, who also had psychosis.
David’s book, Maybe I Don’t Belong Here, is out now.
CONTENT WARNING: as David recalls racist abuse, this episode contains offensive and distressing language.