Nigerian rapper Lil Kesh has bravely shared his ongoing battle with mental health, revealing that he has self-diagnosed ADHD and struggles with anxiety. In a candid interview on The Esther Show, the artist opened up about the challenges he’s faced and the impact these issues have had on his life and career.
While he’s hesitant to label himself, Lil Kesh made it clear that his symptoms go far beyond what most people might casually chalk up to “being a little hyper.” “I diagnosed myself, but trust me, I know,” he said. “Everyone has a bit of it in them, but it becomes a real issue when it turns into a disorder. I’ve been dealing with it since I was a child.”
The rapper went on to explain that emotional confusion often triggers his anxiety, but he’s learned that gaining clarity about his feelings helps him manage his struggles. “Once I understand what I’m dealing with, the problem is already halfway solved,” he shared.
Despite his openness, Lil Kesh revealed that he’s never sought therapy due to trust issues and what he perceives as inadequate mental health support in Nigeria. “When I needed help the most, I wasn’t privileged enough to get it,” he said, alluding to the country’s underdeveloped mental health infrastructure.
In addition to discussing his personal journey, Lil Kesh took the opportunity to reflect on the broader systemic issues facing Nigeria, particularly in areas like governance and infrastructure. His comments not only shed light on his own mental health challenges but also highlighted the need for greater support and resources in a country where mental health is often neglected.
