After four years away from the limelight, comedian Malik Bentalha is back on stage with his new show "Nouveau monde," reflecting on his life and the struggles he faced, particularly his battle with depression. During this period, Bentalha had taken time off to focus on his well-being, both mental and physical, and he is now eager to share his experiences with his audience.
On the program "Quotidien" back in June, Bentalha opened up about his difficult experiences. He stated, "I went through tough times. There were ups and downs over these four years. It's important for me to raise awareness among young people, especially this generation about these illnesses, because it's a disease to me." His words highlight the importance of mental health awareness, especially among younger demographics grappling with similar issues.
Continuing this theme, Bentalha discussed how societal pressures, particularly from social media, can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and depression. He explained, "It's something insidious, vicious; we are in denial. Today, with social media, we are forbidden to be unwell." This statement encapsulates the struggle many face as they navigate the online world, where negative comparisons can lead to significant mental health challenges.
His candid discussions also touch on how he began to self-sabotage during his toughest times. "I was sabotaging myself," he confessed, detailing how he became less active and more isolated during his lowest moments. These reflections provide insight not only to his personal battles but also to how he perceives the challenges of public life.
Nevertheless, Malik Bentalha found a turning point when he realized he needed to change his circumstances. "Either I was going to stay locked away, or I was going to decide to rise and come back stronger," he reflected on this decision, which set him on the path to recovery. This pivotal moment encouraged him to prioritize his health, engage with therapy, and start exercising again.
Returning to the stage, Bentalha has shed weight, transforming his self-image from someone who felt trapped by his circumstances. He humorously remarked, "Without surgery, without anything. I've been exercising every morning, and I've eaten watermelon, lots of watermelon!" This lightheartedness speaks volumes about his recovery and outlook, showcasing how important humor and positivity are to his life now.
Malik Bentalha’s story is not just one of personal struggle; it's also about resilience and responsibility. His experiences serve as powerful reminders of the importance of mental health support and the necessity of speaking out on issues often shrouded in stigma. By sharing his vulnerabilities, Bentalha aims to inspire others facing similar challenges, encouraging them to seek help and be open about their feelings.
His performances from now until December 31 at La Cigale, followed by shows at the Adidas Arena and various Zénith venues, will not only showcase his growth as a performer but also as someone committed to changing the narrative around mental health. Bentalha is determined to use his platform to educate and connect with audiences on these significant matters. It's clear his time away from the stage has only deepened his appreciation for comedy and its power to heal.
Through laughter, vulnerability, and self-reflection, Malik Bentalha is redefining what it means to be successful on stage post-mental health struggles. His comeback is much more than just about the return of comedy; it's about breaking the silence surrounding depression and encouraging others to embrace their own journeys.
