Musician, filmmaker, and social media phenom Jacob Sartorius knows all too well what it’s like to struggle with mental health issues. He’s been dealing with anxiety and depression since he was a tween, and it only got worse when he became a star. Sometimes, the depression and anxiety were so all-consuming that he couldn’t even show up in his own life. When he did, he felt like he was “waving through a window,” separate from everyone around him. Though he went to therapy and got on prescription medications, there were times that Sartorius still didn’t feel like he could see the light at the end of the dark tunnel he felt trapped in.
Luckily, he finally found his lifeline, and he’s no longer trapped. In an exclusive interview with Health Digest, Sartorius revealed how he’s managing his anxiety and depression and shared a message for all those who are still struggling.
Finding his solution
Jacob Sartorius found the light at the end of his dark tunnel when his therapist encouraged him to try the Wim Hof Method. The practice involves regimented breath work and cold exposure to help build resilience and implement the idea of mind over matter. Sartorius’ therapist sent him a link to one of Wim Hof’s videos a little over a year and a half ago, and he’s been practicing the method ever since.
Sartorius said that the practice changed his perspective on life. He feels like a part of the world again, and he’s able to feel positivity, gratitude, and love in a way he didn’t know was possible. Part of the power of the practice, Sartorius explained, is that it gives him a sense of control over his feelings and his life, both of which felt totally out of control before.
“There will be things that still trigger me, and that’s for everyone, but it definitely helps in controlling that,” he said. “We get mad. It’s not like ‘mad’ happens to us. That’s how I look at it. We’re somewhat responsible for some of these emotions or at least have some control over them.”
Once he was able to control his thoughts and feelings through consistent practice of the Wim Hof Method, Sartorius was able to identify negative patterns that he kept repeating and eliminate them.
‘Keep the faith alive’
Jacob Sartorius acknowledged that the Wim Hof Method isn’t for everyone, but he does believe that there is a solution out there for every person who’s struggling. The tough part, he admitted, is dealing with the difficult and uncomfortable process of finding out what works for your mental health.
“Keep the faith alive, because there’s so much good coming,” Sartorius insisted. “Know that the light is coming, and sometimes it takes time to work through these uncomfortable stages … Know that you’re powerful, you’re strong, you’re loved, and you’re capable of anything. It’s mind over matter … Be kind to yourself, too, because this is not something that works [immediately]. I’m still working on it. I’m in the process.”
If you can stick it out, you’ll find the light at the end of the tunnel, Sartorius promised. At least, that’s certainly been his experience.
Watch Jacob’s debut film, “BREATHE: The Documentary,” here, and watch the official video for Jacob’s latest single, “WORTH IT,” here.
