David Rabadi is not only an author, he’s a mental health and LGBTQ advocate. He is the first Jordanian to come out publicly in Yonkers, NY. David Rabadi devotes his time speaking to people about these issues and inspiring them to live their lives to the fullest despite the challenges they encounter. And, David is committed to fighting the stigma towards mental health.
His first book, How I Lost My Mind and Found Myself, will be available on Amazon later this month. In this memoir David Rabadi shares his own experience as a member of the LGBTQ community. He candidly tells of how living a closeted life in a Middle Eastern culture is brutal-and potentially deadly. YEM spoke with David about his new book and his advice for those who are currently struggling. Head to YEM’s Twitter today as David Rabadi takes over our account!
Young Entertainment Mag: You are a strong advocate for mental health. Why is it important for people, especially young people, to pay attention to their mental health?
David Rabadi: It’s very important for everyone to pay attention to their mental health because they may not be aware that they have a mental illness and worsen their condition by taking prescribed medication for a condition they don’t have. That’s exactly what happened to me. I didn’t know I had a bipolar disorder and was taking Adderall to lose weight, which worsened my disorder and led me to delusional thoughts.
YEM: How has the pandemic this year affected people’s mental health?
David: A lot of people have been experiencing anxiety and stress while being in lockdown. There has also been an increase in suicide. It’s a very scary time in the world, and it’s so important now, more than ever, to have patience and understanding.
YEM: What would you say to anyone who is struggling with their mental health?
David: My advice to people struggling with mental illness is don’t be ashamed to seek professional help. You don’t have to suffer alone. You can get through your struggles, there are many support groups out there.
YEM: What are some of the warning signs that someone’s mental health is suffering?
David: Warning signs can vary according to the person. Feelings of not wanting to engage in social or family gatherings can be a sign of depression. Staying up for days in a row with no sleep can be a sign of mania that is a part of bipolar disorder.
YEM: You are also an advocate for the LGBTQ community. What are some good resources for people who are questioning their sexuality?
David: For people questioning their sexuality the best advice I can give is to be true to your desire. If you feel that you have an attraction to the same sex the only way to know if it’s what you like is to try it. Don’t deny your natural attraction.
YEM: Can you recommend any books, movies, pieces of art that are good representations of the LGBTQ community?
David: A good representation of the LGBTQ community is the movie “A Normal Heart.” You will cry, laugh and be inspired by this film.
YEM: As an author, is it difficult to share your personal experiences with the world?
David: Writing my book was very difficult, but healing. I had to become comfortable with personal details of my life that would be out in the open. I put myself in a vulnerable place as I knew there would be varying opinions and interpretations of my story.
YEM: Your book is called “How I Lost my Mind and Found Myself.” What is something that people should know if they are trying to find themselves?
David: I believe that in order to find yourself you have to be able to love yourself first, and once you learn to love yourself you will be able to live your authentic self and be happy.
