Ghana News Page | Breaking News, Politics, Entertainment, Sports Headlines I once considered suicide – Will Smith opens up on mental health struggle - Ghana News Page
Hollywood actor and rapper Will Smith has made a heartbreaking revelation about his past battle with mental health, admitting that he once contemplated suicide during one of the darkest periods of his life.
The emotional confession was made in his candid YouTube docuseries, The Best Shape of My Life, where he delves deep into not just his physical transformation, but also his inner emotional turmoil.
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This rare display of vulnerability from the Academy Award-winning actor has sparked widespread conversations around mental health awareness, especially among men and public figures who often feel pressured to hide their struggles.
A Vulnerable Moment in Front of the Cameras
In the docuseries, Will Smith reflects on his journey to reclaim his physical health by losing 20 pounds in 20 weeks. However, it quickly becomes clear that his emotional journey is far more intense than the physical challenge. In a poignant moment, he says:
“When I started this show, I thought I was getting into the best shape of my life physically. But mentally, I was somewhere else… I had thoughts of ending it all.”
He did not go into specific details about the exact period or circumstances, but he emphasized that the mental weight he was carrying was heavier than any gym workout.
Will also opened up about the long-standing effects of childhood trauma, particularly witnessing domestic violence as a child. In his 2021 memoir, Will, the actor wrote about watching his father abuse his mother and how that experience shaped his lifelong pursuit of perfection, approval, and emotional control.
These unresolved emotional wounds, coupled with the immense pressure of maintaining a spotless image in the public eye, contributed to periods of emotional collapse.
Mental Health Struggles Are Real – Even for Superstars
Despite his global fame, wealth, and accolades, Will Smith’s story is a powerful reminder that mental health issues do not discriminate. Even the most successful individuals can silently battle anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts behind the scenes.
“You just never know what people are going through behind their smiles,” Will admitted, adding that opening up was one of the most freeing decisions he has ever made.
Will recently opened up about his weight loss efforts (Photo by Pablo Cuadra/WireImage)
Public Reaction and Mental Health Advocacy
Fans and fellow celebrities have praised Smith for his honesty, calling his story “brave” and “necessary.” Mental health advocates have applauded him for using his platform to destigmatize mental illness, especially among Black men, who are often discouraged from expressing vulnerability due to societal norms.
Social media platforms were flooded with supportive messages and personal stories from people who have battled similar demons, proving the power of shared experiences in healing.
Will revealed that he began seeing a therapist regularly and started practicing mindfulness, journaling, and meditation to cope with his emotional battles. He also credits his family—especially his children Jaden, Willow, and Trey—for being a source of strength and grounding during tough times.
“You can’t achieve external success without internal peace,” he noted in one of the episodes.
Will Smith’s admission that he once considered suicide is not just a tabloid headline—it’s a critical reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health. His courage to speak out adds to a growing chorus of celebrities and public figures shedding light on mental wellness, urging others to seek help, talk openly, and show compassion.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or depression, please reach out to a mental health professional or call a crisis helpline in your country. You’re not alone, and there is help available.
By GhanaNewsPage 
