Ukrainian actress's bold depression awareness video ignites race debate online

Research shows that over a billion people worldwide are affected by some kind of mental health issue, with anxiety and depression considered the most common. 

As the world marks Mental Health Awareness Month this October, Ukrainian actress Tania Galakhova took to social media to showcase what it's like to live with depression. 

The message was quickly diluted when netizens chose to focus more on the colour she used to depict the "depression".

In the video, a tired-looking Galakhova tries to do simple things like scroll through her phone, brush her teeth or leave the house, but she is constantly interrupted by a heavy black figure, which represents depression. 

It shows her carrying this figure on her back when she is trying to enjoy things like lunch with her friends, visiting the amusement park or being affectionate with a man.

Overall, the video shows the burden on one's shoulders that becomes unbearable, yet they must keep going despite feeling everything weighing them down. 

Despite the powerful message, netizens in the comments were more focused on why Galakhova used the colour black to depict depression. 

"Must black be used for this? Black isn’t evil. Why black now? Someone should help me explain. Is black that scary?," asked @0x_MisAura.

@SIR_CHAPMAN004 wrote: "So, depression cannot come in white colour? Awful, delusive, fictional and fallacious."

@Tabelo2000 commented: "Is depression black? She should’ve used some other colour character."

Meanwhile, those who looked past the colour defended the video, pointing out that the black figure represented a "shadow", and the video is not related to race.

"It is NOT about portrayal of a 'black man' but a DARK SHADOW that follows you. A friggin SHADOW. It's NOT about skin colour," said @StellaPatch. 

@SRonhai said: "Depression is like having a dark shadow cast over you all the time. It's a burden you can not shake at times, so this is an accurate portrayal."

The video inspired other netizens to share their stories about living with mental health issues. 

"Addiction and depression are pure chaos. Some days, you feel like you’ve finally conquered them, like you’re free at last. But then, out of nowhere, you find yourself slipping back, drawn to the same habits or feelings you thought you’d left behind. It’s a scary cycle, but healing isn’t always a straight line," wrote @FaotuHappy.

@Weemus0417 commented: "Agree. This is what it actually feels like - a heavy weight that won't go away."

Where to get help

Seeking help doesn’t mean you are weak, it means you are taking control of your well-being. Here are some accessible options.

SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group)

Helpline: 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393

Website: www.sadag.org

LifeLine South Africa

Provides 24-hour counselling.

National Crisis Line: 0861 322 322

Public clinics and hospitals

Many government facilities offer free or low-cost mental health services.

Community-based organisations

Local NGOs and churches often provide counselling and peer support groups.