Ry Doon: Laughing Through the Darkness of Depression and Alcohol
When I'm drunk, it eases my anxiety so much that I'm like, ah, now I'm the real me, right, and that's like a kind of a scary thought to think like, oh, when I'm drunk, that's the real me.
What happens when the laughter fades and the darkness creeps in? Comedian Ry Doon knows this all too well. In this heartfelt episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', host Paul Gilmartin sits down with Ry to uncover the raw and often painful reality behind his comedic persona. Ry opens up about his battles with depression, a relentless fear of failure, and the crushing financial setbacks he faced after Vine, where he had a massive following, was shut down.
But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Ry also shares his experience growing up with a mother diagnosed with Bipolar I, and how her mental health struggles impacted his own life. The conversation takes a deeper turn as Ry talks about his relationship with alcohol. He reveals how drinking has become a way to ease his anxiety, yet leaves him questioning if the 'real him' only surfaces when he's intoxicated.
This episode isn't just about Ry's struggles; it's a broader discussion on how parental mental illness can shape a child's life and the importance of addressing psychological issues before making significant life decisions like marriage. With Paul’s empathetic approach and Ry’s candidness, this episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with similar issues or supporting someone who is. You'll find moments of humor, deep reflection, and valuable insights that make it clear: you're not alone in your struggles.