Kenya rugby player Dennis Ombachi has opened up on his battle with bipolar disorder and depression.
In a frank Twitter thread, Dennis talked about how much he has struggled with the two.
Are you ready for some real life stories? Well here goes. As You know, I am Dennis Ombachi, kind of an International rugby player and a guy who’s passionate about cooking, what many people don’t know is that in am medically diagnosed with bi-polar disorder. He began his narration.
Ombachi said that he was often blamed for his behavior when he missed flights. But what his coaches and teammates did not know was how much pain he was in.
Many years I have struggled with this & depression. I would usually disappear from social media & occasionally miss flights when I had made the team. This behaviour was always blamed on me “just being Dennis” What my coaches and team mates didn’t know was how much pain I was in.
The self-taught chef went ahead to educate his fans about bipolar disorder. Because most people do not understand what it means. And end up loosely using the term.
For those who don’t know Bi-Polar disorder means my moods can swing from elation to depression without warning, however, as long as I take my medication, I’m usually good.
Dennis admitted that the illness has taken a toll on his family life over year’s. But he’s however thankful for the immense support he receives.
This has taken a toll on my family life over the years and I am thankful for the support I have received. When I say family, Include the friends who have stuck by me and walked with me through the darkness all these years.
The father of one added that Mental Health is affecting so many. But very few are willing to come forward and talk about it. Since it is considered taboo in our culture.
Many athletes and many ordinary people are facing this daily and they need help and understanding.
Dennis went ahead to encourage people to talk about Mental Health and raise awareness. Because more people will no longer suffer in silence, the way he has all these years.
He added that he doesn’t need pity. But only wants to be open and encourage others to seek professional help when they need it.
If we talk about this more, then more people will no longer suffer in silence, the way I have all these years. I don’t need pity, I just want us to be more open to seeking professional help when we need it.
So, recently a lot of popular people have opened up on their Mental Health struggles. And I believe they do this for a good cause to encourage others to understand that it is okay to struggle. Let us learn to create safe spaces for our friends to open up and accord them the necessary support. Help end the stigma of mental health. If you are struggling with your mental health seek professional help if need be.