You see the glamour, the glitz, the gold,
The dazzling stories that unfold,
But miss the nights when dreams run cold,
The hidden trials, the truths untold.
From gig to gig, I roam and strive,
Chasing dreams to stay alive.
Where the next paycheck will appear,
Is a mystery, far and near.
The shows you see, the stages bright,
Hide the endless, weary nights.
Unpaid hours and sleepless days,
Building up through endless praise.
Rejection cuts with silent pain,
Public scrutiny’s harsh refrain.
A single slip, a misstep made,
Can lead to cancel culture’s shade.
In this realm of fierce acclaim,
Many see it as a game.
Who stands by me when lights grow dim?
Who’s there when prospects seem grim?
Competition’s sharp and cruel,
A constant fight to stay in school.
Even when success is near,
Money’s split before it’s clear.
Agents, managers, taxman’s claim,
Take their share, and leave a name.
When fortune fades, and cash runs low,
Love and support may not show.
Invitations stop, the calls grow thin,
The ones who cared, they’re lost within.
Where’s my mental health in the fray?
In this fickle life, where shadows sway?
You see the fame, the sparkle bright,
But miss the trials out of sight.
Behind the scenes and all the cheer,
I’m human too, with hopes and fears.
- @_glennmarsden
The Reality of Fame and its Impact on Mental Health: A Call for Empathy in the Digital Age
In today's digital age, where social media platforms reign supreme, fame has taken on a new dimension. With a single viral moment, an individual can achieve instant recognition and find themselves thrust into the spotlight. While fame may appear glamorous from the outside, its impact on mental health is a reality that often goes unnoticed. Additionally, the rise of keyboard warriors, individuals who engage in online hate speech and post hurtful comments, has further exacerbated the negative effects on those in the public eye. In this article, we delve into the harsh reality of fame and why it is crucial for keyboard warriors to exercise empathy before posting hurtful comments.
The Hidden Side of Fame:
Fame comes with a multitude of challenges, many of which have a profound impact on an individual's mental well-being. Constant scrutiny, invasion of privacy, and relentless public judgment can take a toll on even the most resilient individuals. Celebrities often face immense pressure to maintain a flawless public image, leading to a sense of isolation and anxiety. Moreover, the disconnect between the public persona and the private self can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and inadequacy.
The Illusion of Perfection:
Social media platforms have contributed significantly to the distortion of reality and the perpetuation of an unattainable standard of perfection. Celebrities are expected to be flawless, both physically and emotionally, which can lead to a constant need for validation and the fear of making any mistakes. The pressure to conform to societal expectations often results in the deterioration of mental health, as individuals struggle to meet unrealistic standards.
Keyboard Warriors: Impact of Hateful Comments:
While the internet has undoubtedly brought us closer together, it has also created a breeding ground for negativity and hostility. Keyboard warriors, shielded by the anonymity of the online world, feel emboldened to post hurtful comments without fully comprehending the consequences of their actions. The impact of such hateful comments on individuals in the public eye cannot be overstated. Behind the screen, there are real people with real emotions, and the barrage of negative remarks can have severe consequences on their mental health.
The Power of Empathy:
It is imperative for us, as a society, to recognize the power of empathy and compassion in our interactions, particularly when it comes to our online behavior. A simple pause to consider the potential impact of our words can make a significant difference. Instead of spreading hate, we should strive to cultivate an environment of support and understanding. Constructive criticism is essential, but it should be delivered respectfully and with the intention of promoting growth rather than tearing someone down.
Promoting Mental Health Awareness:
To address the mental health challenges faced by individuals in the public eye, it is crucial to promote mental health awareness and provide support systems. Celebrities themselves are increasingly speaking out about their struggles, helping to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. Society needs to foster an environment that encourages open conversations, understanding, and access to mental health resources for all, irrespective of their level of fame.
The reality of fame goes far beyond red carpets and paparazzi flashes. Behind the glitz and glamour lies the toll it takes on an individual's mental health. The rise of keyboard warriors further compounds the challenges faced by those in the public eye, as they navigate a world where hate can be spewed at the click of a button. As responsible digital citizens, we must recognize the profound impact of our words and strive to build a more empathetic and supportive online community. Only by doing so can we contribute to the well-being and mental health of all individuals, famous or not.
'There's a Mystique around FAME, people think it will make them happy' with Jeremy Jackson
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Jeremy Jackson is an American actor and singer. Best known for his role as Hobie Buchannon on the world wide television show Baywatch.
He exploded onto the commercial scene starring in dozens of national network ad campaigns including television and print and
has continued to star in several daytime television series and films. He excelled in the music industry releasing two full-length albums with two top ten hits and several singles that launched him into a full European Tour and was honoured at the World Music Hall of Fame, as well as inducted into the Young Hollywood Hall of Fame.
In this episode, Jeremy takes us back to the beginning of a career that saw him step into the spotlight at the age of six years of age. He walks us through being catipulted into the heights of fame like no other when Baywatch became a world wide phenomenon, and all eyes were on him all the time whilst trying to navigate growing up.
He openly shares his dark periods with addiction and where it drove him to, to getting the help he needed and going through recovery which ultimately saw him change his life around to now using his platform to empower and help others around the world that have or are going through addiction.
To find out more information about Jeremy and to keep up to date with all of his projects, simply head to his socials @jeremyjacksonfitness
