Showing Vulnerability to Build Resilience with Musician 220Kid

“The bad times are the best times, as they build the resilience, the appreciation and the gratitude that we have.”

Showing vulnerability, emotion, and opening up about our mental health, sadly still comes with stigma and judgment attached. Crying or speaking about how we feel is viewed as a “sign of weakness”, often even more so for men. However, Brit nominated music artist, 220 Kid wants to change this. He shares with us that “it’s ok to cry, and to show your vulnerability”, in doing so it can help other people to see that we all go through struggles. These emotions are what make us human. Without these low points in our lives, we would not be appreciative of the highs.

“I think portrayal of what the perfect man is, needs to change.. Maybe the perfect man is someone who is kind, open and understanding of how they feel. They’re willing to work on themselves and keep trying to better their being, physically and mentally.”

Having faced his own personal struggles with mental health and challenges throughout his career, which he retells in the video below, one of the most important takeaways that 220 Kid shares with us is to be authentic and not to give up. Whether it is seeing past being told that you cannot achieved your dreams or finding the strength to work through a low day. He encourages anyone struggling with their mental health, to take that first step, to admit how we feel and ask for help. Be open, have the courage to reach out. Also to check in on your friends, as these words can be immeasurable for someone going through a hard time.

“It’s massively important to be open with your friends and ask if they are ok. People don’t notice the impact of their words.”

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or think someone that you know is, we encourage you to please start the conversation. Ask for help. Reach out. Please know that having this conversation is not a burden. There are organisations such as the Samaritans who are there to provide support to you and your loved ones. Call 116 123 for free to speak to someone from the Samaritans helpline today.