Nollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon has revealed his personal strategies for coping with life’s challenges, emphasizing the role of his wife and a broader support system in helping him navigate difficult moments. In a candid interview with Dear Ife, the actor opened up about the emotional pressures he faces and how he manages them without isolating himself. He highlighted that while his wife is his primary source of comfort, he is careful not to overburden her, recognizing her own professional and family responsibilities.
Okanlawon explained that there are times when stress becomes overwhelming, prompting him to wake his wife in the middle of the night to talk and seek emotional relief. He described her as someone he turns to when the pressure becomes too much, acknowledging that she is not always the first person he reaches out to due to her busy schedule. “When the thing is just too hard, there’s my wife,” he said. “She’s not the first because she’s dealing with her own business and raising the family. But when it’s hitting me too hard, I’ll wake her in the middle of the night and tell her to help me.”
Beyond his marriage, the actor has intentionally built a strong support network that includes a therapist, mentors, and trusted friends. These individuals provide guidance, encouragement, and a safe space for him to process emotions and gain perspective. He believes that relying on others is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step toward emotional well-being. Okanlawon stressed the importance of men seeking help rather than trying to carry every burden alone, warning that isolation can lead to mental exhaustion and deeper struggles.
He also spoke about his sense of responsibility to protect those around him, especially in times of crisis. “My job is to protect the people around me,” he said. “If gbege happens here now, the chances are I’m going to step in front. It’s what needs to happen. There’s no excuse. You also have to be aware enough to find healing.” His words reflect a growing awareness in Nigerian society about mental health and the need for open conversations around emotional struggles, especially among men in the public eye.
As Nollywood continues to grow, actors like Deyemi Okanlawon are setting examples by breaking the silence around mental health. His openness may inspire others to seek help and build healthier support systems, fostering a culture of emotional resilience in both personal and professional spheres.
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