Born and raised in the harsh environment of Bonteheuwel, a community plagued by gangsterism and substance abuse, Craig shared how his early life shaped his dreams and struggles.

Craig explained that his master’s thesis focused on youthful desires and explored how circumstances both limit and define them.

“Your circumstances define you, but we must not let them limit us,” Craig emphasized. This insight paved the way for a more in-depth exploration of his own mental health issues.

Behind the spotlight, Craig faced enormous personal losses, including the murders of his brother and aunt at the hands of a family member.

TO READ: Craig Lucas breaks his silence following the murders of his brother and aunt

Despite these challenges, she found resilience by focusing on support and self-care: “I had to decide whether to go down the path of numbing myself with substances or try to get better.”

Initially diagnosed with bipolar II disorder, Craig later discovered that he might be dealing with borderline personality disorder, which resonated with him even more strongly.

He emphasized the importance of seeking professional help, saying: “There are people who are fully trained to treat these things better.”

The journey of navigating these diagnoses illuminated the importance of understanding and acknowledging mental health struggles.

Craig also spoke openly about his struggle with addiction, sharing how alcohol and drugs initially served as coping mechanisms.

After a harrowing period of substance abuse, made worse by the pressures of fame, Craig chose to get sober almost three years ago.

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The support of friends and a solid professional support system were crucial in this transformative decision.

The wake-up call that helped Craig make a life-changing choice was, “It was either that, you’re wasting your money, you’re wasting your time.”

A particularly poignant moment in Craig’s journey was the first day he woke up without the debilitating voices of doubt and self-hatred in his mind.

“Is this what it feels like to wake up in the morning and be a little tired?” he explained, realizing that what he once thought was normal was not.

Lucas’ story serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the power of overcoming challenges.

TO READ: Safe Area 2024

His journey underscores the fact that reaching out for help is crucial not only for oneself, but for those around us as well.

As Craig continues to embrace change and growth, he inspires others to “face it, accept it,” and take a bold step toward recovery.

Craig’s interview on Breakfast with Martin Bester is part of Jacaranda FM’s Safe Space initiative.

Jacaranda FM believes that if men are provided with the right platform and motivation, they will feel comfortable discussing the burdens in their lives and seeking help.

In November, Jacaranda FM, in collaboration with Ekim Health, will be addressing the various challenges faced by men.

October Health, formerly known as PANDA, is designed to empower individuals to take control of their mental health and wellbeing through proactive, long-term solutions.

By combining performance psychology with cutting-edge technology, the platform helps users not only manage stress and anxiety, but also build mental resilience and unlock their full potential. With personalized tools, live sessions, and self-guided resources, Oct Health makes mental wellness an attainable and desirable goal for everyone.

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