Yanga Sobetwa reflects on severe depression and anxiety on her birthday

Idols SA season 14 winner Yanga Sobetwa recently celebrated her birthday by reflecting on overcoming depression and anxiety. 

Taking to her Instagram timeline recently the 22-year-old shared what she overcame and her gratitude to finally record her gospel album. 

“It’s my 22nd birthday. It’s my 'young adult era' sana. Man, looking where I came from I was not supposed to make it. The suicidal attempts, the severe depression and anxiety, the trauma. Hay truly it’s only by God grace shame. Y’all know I have a recording on July 1 2023 so my wish is for y’all to buy your tickets and help me live my purpose,” she captioned her post. 

At 17 years old Yanga topped iTunes' Gospel Charts after the release of her song Promised Land featuring multi award-winning singer Amanda Black and the Soweto Gospel Choir.

“I have definitely received great feedback from all over. People say my music brings them hope and peace and they are amazed at what the album does to their souls. That feels good. It gives me a tap on the back and encourages me to go forward,” she said.

Idols judge and media personality Somizi Mhlongo has also been vocal about depression and anxiety.

During one episode of his bathroom talk sessions, he opened up about taking charge of his mental health.

“This condition doesn't choose your financial status, doesn't choose race, gender or sexuality. When it's attacking, it's attacking. What I'm doing is dismantling what it says it has by talking about it.

“Now that I can recognise it, I don't deny it and don't glorify it. Recognise it and say, 'I see you and I'm going to do something about it.”