Tellaman On How He Navigates Mental Health Challenges

South African singer and songwriter Tellaman has given fans a candid glimpse into the reality of dealing with mental health while navigating the demanding world of entertainment.

The R&B star recently opened up about the pressures that come with being in the public eye, the importance of having genuine people around you, and why confronting difficult moments rather than running away from them can make a difference.

Tellaman and Nasty C spoke openly about their friendship, the meaning behind “T’s & C’s Apply,” mental health, fear, and the challenges of navigating life and the music industry. The two artists also shared their thoughts on R&B and Hip-Hop, the importance of genuine friendships, and some of their favourite R&B songs of all time.

In an interview with SA Hip Hop Mag, Tellaman opened up about how he deals with mental health and the realities that come with working in an industry where artists are constantly exposed to public opinion.

Rather than suggesting that there is one perfect solution for dealing with difficult emotions, Tellaman explained that his approach is about reconnecting with the things that make him feel grounded and remind him of his humanity.

Tellaman opened up about how he navigates his mental health. Tellaman said, “There’s no specific method or routine you follow. You just lean on the things that sort of make you feel worthy again or human again. Sometimes, in space we are operate in, being in the entertainment industry is crazy. You have to deal with a lot of scrutiny from different people, people that you’ve never met.”

His words shed light on a side of the music industry that audiences do not always see. For artists, being constantly visible can mean having to deal with criticism, judgement, and opinions from complete strangers. While public scrutiny may be part of the job, the emotional impact it can have is often much more personal.

For Tellaman, having a strong support system is therefore an important part of navigating those challenges. The singer stressed the value of surrounding yourself with people who genuinely care, particularly during moments when things feel overwhelming.

“It’s very helpful to have real friends and family that care about you. Also not to runaway from it when it happens, just acknowledge it and try to deal with it as a concept.”

Tellaman’s comments offer a refreshingly honest perspective on mental health. Instead of pretending that difficult moments do not exist, he encourages acknowledging them and finding ways to work through them.

His reflections also highlight the role that genuine friendships and family can play when life becomes difficult. In an industry where relationships can sometimes be influenced by fame, success, and business, having people who provide authentic support can be invaluable.

For Tellaman, navigating mental health is not necessarily about following a strict routine or having a simple answer. It is about finding what makes you feel human again, recognising when you are struggling, and allowing yourself to lean on the people who truly care.