Anjo Damiles reveals battle with depression, anxiety

Anjo Damiles revealed for the first time that he was diagnosed with depression and anxiety last year.

On Tuesday, however, in an online interview with the press for “Daig Kayo Ng Lola Ko,” the Kapuso actor said he was now doing better.

“I was actually diagnosed with depression June last year so I had to take medicine,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino. “I was also diagnosed with severe anxiety since last year.”

“It’s hard to explain when it comes to mental health. It suddenly breaks you down into two,” he added.

According to Anjo, there came a point in his life where he “lost it,” but he was grateful to those who stayed by his side and helped him go through that phase.

“I was crying, I was lost. It’s hard to find yourself,” he said. “With the help of my psychiatrist, my medicine, I calmed down. God also never left my mind,” he added.

“God was really the one who helped me. Also my family and doctor. They kept me sane. They gave me new ideas, what I can do to keep my mind occupied.”

Looking back, Anjo also couldn’t stop himself from sharing that apart from his mom, God really was his “one call away” companion.

“He answers everything. I had blessings in front of me whenever I call and pray. He shows it to my face that, ‘here, this is for you. You don’t have to feel that way anymore. I’m listening to your prayers. I’m always here.’”

Anjo added that the pandemic played a big part because his life suddenly went from being busy every day to not doing anything.

After going through it for months, Anjo decided to be more proactive with his condition and tell himself “I am fine.”

“I don’t want to be dependent. I’m just fighting with it mentally. I just couldn’t handle the first parts, I really needed help. You have to give yourself a good fight,” he said.

“Sometimes, the anxiety and depression kicks in. It just does but I keep myself occupied,” he added. “It’s hard to fight with yourself so just continue fighting. Until now, I am succeeding.”

According to Anjo, some of the things that help him are playing games, talking to his loved ones, praying, and his food business, where he personally cooks the items on the menu.

Apart from his family and special someone, Anjo said nobody knew about his condition, so he was thankful to have the opportunity to share it with the public now.

“I never really opened up about this to other people,” he said. “I wanted to but it’s kind of awkward, it’s like there’s something wrong when it comes from you, when no one’s asking.”

He also wanted to send a message to those who were going through the same thing: “Keep fighting. Always pray and if ever you get the chance to talk to someone, please do,” he said.

“Be thankful for what you have, what is given to you. Always smile, be happy even if the future seems dark because at least, there’s a part in your life where you’re smiling and you’ll bring that forever.” – RC, GMA News