Full Breakdown
Big Sean Reflects on Mental Health Struggles Following Nipsey Hussle's Death
2/17/2026, 8:02:50 PM
The Impact of Loss on Mental Health
Big Sean, the Detroit rapper born Sean Michael Leonard Anderson, has publicly shared his struggles with depression and anxiety following the death of his close friend and collaborator, Nipsey Hussle. Hussle was fatally shot outside his Marathon Clothing store in South Los Angeles in March 2019. The emotional toll of this loss prompted Big Sean to take a hiatus from the music industry to focus on his mental health.
In a recent interview with Linsey Davis for ABC News’ All Access, Big Sean discussed the challenges he faced after Hussle's death. He described a period marked by "heavy ups and downs," stating, “It felt like I hit a wall, and I either had to climb over it, or it was gonna fall on me and crush me.” This metaphor encapsulates the depth of his emotional struggle, which he characterized as a "very deep battle of depression, deeper than I experienced when I was like a teenager."
Seeking Help and Prioritizing Self-Care
Big Sean emphasized the importance of therapy during this difficult time. He noted that he was not initially aware of the vulnerability he was expressing by discussing his mental health, a topic often considered taboo in the Black community. “I was just sharing what was going on in my life. I didn’t realize that I was being so vulnerable,” he explained.
To cope with his mental health challenges, Big Sean took a four-year break from music, stepping away from his obligations to prioritize his well-being. He stated, “I had to put myself first,” and during this time, he learned to take care of himself both physically and mentally. He highlighted the significance of having fun and enjoying life, saying, “You got to be serious about having fun, because as fast as time goes, we’re here for a limited amount of time.”
Legacy and Reflection
Big Sean's reflections on his mental health journey are intertwined with his musical career. He paid tribute to Nipsey Hussle in his 2021 track "Deep Reverence," which features a posthumous verse from Hussle. This song became a pivotal moment in Sean's career, allowing him to express his grief and honor his friend's legacy.
The rapper's openness about his struggles has contributed to broader conversations about mental health within the hip-hop community. His experience underscores the importance of acknowledging personal challenges and seeking support, illustrating that success does not shield individuals from grief or depression.
Official Statements & Responses
In his interview, Big Sean reiterated the lessons he learned during his time away from music, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. He expressed gratitude for his current state, stating, “I’m just happy to be here enjoying myself.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “It felt like I hit a wall, and I either had to climb over it or it was gonna fall on me and crush me.” — Big Sean
- “I had to put myself first,” — Big Sean
- “You got to be serious about having fun, because as fast as time goes, we’re here for a limited amount of time…” — Big Sean
Big Sean's journey highlights the significance of mental health awareness and self-care, particularly in the face of personal loss. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of vulnerability and the healing power of music and community.
