Renowned musician, Wolfgang Van Halen, who has suffered mental health issues as a result of criticisms from online trolls, is set to be a part of this year Audacy’s I’m Listening Initiative—an annual emotional well-being advocacy that features artists, celebrities, and athletes who openly discuss their emotional and psychological struggles.
The musician who had earlier expressed in an interview that, despite his achievements in the world of music, he continues to struggle with anxiety consistently will talk about his experience and how he has been able to overcome the challenges. “I get nervous all the time. I’m nervous when I have no reason to get nervous,” the 35-year-old shared. “I have really bad anxiety. When it comes to playing shows, I’ve found that now that I’ve been doing it so much, it starts to ease up.”
Wolf Gang will appear alongside other celebrities for the event
Aside from Wolfgang, other celebrities such as Selena Gomez, Adam Lambert, Anitta, Chance the Rapper, Dan + Shay, Ed Sheeran, Gretchen Rubin, Jelly Roll, Jessica Alba, Kelly Clarkson, Lewis Capaldi, Paramore, Richard Sherman, and SZA are set to appear and share their personal experience at I’m Listening which will kick off on September 20.
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The program will also feature contributions from various medical experts and mental health advocates, such as Dr. Vivek Murthy, the surgeon general, Dr. Christine Moutier, AFSP’s Chief Medical Officer, and Victor Armstrong, Vice President of Health Equity and Engagement, who will share more insight on emotional and psychological struggles.
Audacy is committed to sharing the spotlight on mental health struggles
Dave Richards, the Senior Vice President of Programming Audacy, disclosed that I’m Listening is aimed at creating greater awareness, and innovative solutions to address the complex issues surrounding mental health. “Talking about, and taking care of, mental health isn’t just a fad. It truly affects everyone and a mantra we live by – Talk Saves Lives,” he explained. “We started ‘I’m Listening’ to destigmatize the conversation around mental health, and while we’ve made great strides, there’s still work to be done.
“On the broadcast and through year-round audio capsules and digital content, our guests explore what they do to maintain their mental health,” he added. “By sharing these stories, we hope our audience knows they are not alone, that vulnerability is okay, and that asking for help does not make one weak or a burden. We encourage everyone to join the conversation.”