Nigerian actor Michael Ejoor has bravely shared his battle with depression and suicide attempts, offering a deeply personal glimpse into his mental health journey.
Speaking during an interview with Jay On Air, Ejoor revealed that he was diagnosed with clinical depression 14 years ago, during which he attempted to end his life several times.
The actor recounted one particularly harrowing experience while living in the UK, where he walked in front of a moving car in an attempt to take his own life.
“Growing up, I was secluded. I thought everybody hated me. I even thought my dad hated me. I didn’t think anybody liked me. I didn’t think anything was going well for me,” Ejoor said, reflecting on the loneliness and emotional pain that marked his childhood.
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He explained that his struggle with depression made it difficult for him to think about the future or make long-term plans.
“I didn’t want to think about tomorrow. The worst question you could ask me was my five-year goal. I didn’t even want to be alive tomorrow,” he admitted.
Despite the darkness he faced, Ejoor credited time, therapy, and personal growth for helping him begin his healing journey.
He revealed that his relationship with his father, once strained, has significantly improved over the years. Today, he describes his father as his “best friend,” symbolizing how far he has come in reconciling with his past.
Ejoor’s decision to speak openly about his struggles is part of a growing conversation around mental health in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Many public figures have recently shared their experiences with depression, anxiety, and burnout, shedding light on the emotional pressures that come with fame and societal expectations.
“Thank you for sharing your story, Michael. You are saving lives by speaking out,” one fan commented.
Ejoor’s story is a sobering reminder of the importance of mental health conversations in Nigeria and beyond. His journey from despair to healing underscores that recovery is possible and that hope can be found even after the darkest moments.
