J. Cole has been open about discussing mental health, and he has recently credited his improved well-being to two key practices.
During an interview on Kevin Hart’s show “Hart To Heart” on Peacock, Grammy-Award winning rapper opened up about his positive mindset and shared the practices of meditation and reducing social media usage that have contributed to his improved mental health.
“I had set rules for myself. One was like, ‘bro, you can’t go on social media no more’…Nobody’s there to be like, don’t Google yourself. Don’t search your name,” he shared. “I had set some rules for myself, some baseline rules like, yo, don’t go on Twitter. Don’t read your replies.That’s rule number one. Number two, when you’re creating, you got to create from a pure place only. That was a rule I set for myself. Everything has to only be truly what you feel in your heart.”
In the world of hip-hop, artists are increasingly recognizing the importance of taking breaks from social media for their mental well-being.
While social platforms offer visibility and connection, the constant exposure to criticism and negativity can be draining. Stepping away allows artists to recharge, focus on creativity, and protect their mental space, ultimately benefiting their artistry.
Many artists are increasingly using their platforms to speak openly about mental health. Missy Elliott, Kendrick Lamar, J Balvin, Big Sean, and Vic Mensa have all shared their personal struggles and experiences. Their openness has sparked important conversations about well-being and normalized mental health discussions in the music industry. By advocating for self-care and awareness, these artists are making a significant impact on promoting a healthier and more supportive environment for all.
From J. Cole’s reflections on meditation and social media breaks to other artists sharing their struggles, the hip-hop community is destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting healthier approaches to creativity. As these conversations continue to gain momentum, we can hope to see a more empathetic and supportive environment within hip-hop culture, fostering the growth and flourishing of both artists and fans alike.
Watch the full episode here streaming on Peacock.