Celebs come out in support of HHP after suicide attempt confession

06 April 2016 - 16:59 By Kyle Zeeman

The internet has been abuzz with messages of support and debate this week after musician Jabulani Tsambo‚ popularly known as HHP‚ revealed that he attempted suicide several times last year. In a chat with Gareth Cliff on Cliffcentral.com on Monday‚ HHP revealed that he was feeling frustrated over a lack of gigs‚ and the trend of trap-inspired hip-hop music getting more airplay‚ which got him contemplating suicide.The news came as a shock to fans and sparked widespread debate about suicide on social media platforms.But as messages of support flooded in for the musician‚ some users questioned how HHP could be battling with depression and suicidal thoughts when he has money and fame.This led to several celebrities‚ including radio personalities Lerato Kganyago and DJ Ankletap‚ coming out in defence of the artist also known as Jabba.“The level of ignorance around depression on social media is concerning. I am seeing so many people posting about Jabba's situation saying he shouldn't be depressed because he has money and fame. People need to understand just how hard depression can be‚ and how many factors play a role in our mental health. I'm saddened by the news of his attempts to take his own life‚ but I respect him so much for having the guts to open up about it. He has made so many South Africans happy over the course of his career‚ but that doesn't automatically mean you will always be happy with yourself‚” DJ Ankletap wrote on his Facebook.“You were given this life because you are strong enough to live it. Be Strong‚” Kganyago wrote to HHP on her own Twitter account.Speaking to TMG Entertainment shortly after the social media storm‚ HHP explained that he has avoided much of the debate but has been receiving calls from industry friends‚ and high-placed politicians who have been inspired by his confession.“The support has been overwhelming. I been receiving calls from so many people offering their support and congratulating me for speaking out. High-profile politicians and businessman. I even had a well known TV executive call me up and tell me that she had just left her therapist‚ and my story had inspired her‚” he said.“I don't give a rat's ass about what people are saying about me. As long as my story reaches one child and gives him hope‚ it's all worth it”...

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.