Singer Mandy Capristo talks about a moment in her life that "challenged her a lot". The singer suffered a panic attack.
Many people who navigate social media struggle with self-doubt. Singer Mandy Capristo (30, "Grace") can also tell you a thing or two about it. With her new song "Enough" she reminds her fans that you should accept yourself for who you are. Self-love and mental health are very important to the singer. That is why she founded the FELICE platform, which will be launched on March 14th and aim to strengthen mental health. In an interview with the news agency spot on news, Mandy Capristo talks about the importance of mental health, the disadvantages of social media and the moment she suffered a panic attack.
What was the inspiration for your new song "Enough"?
Mandy Capristo: We are often so hard on ourselves, we talk so strictly with ourselves that we wouldn't treat a friend like that. I wanted to write a little reminder to all of us, reminding us of how important it is that we always and no matter when we say to each other: "Hey, you! Yes, that's exactly how you are enough and always will be." And that on repeat (laughs). First and foremost, it is always the most important thing that we think about ourselves in order to be able to convey that to the outside world. I think there is nothing more attractive than a happy person who accepts himself from the inside just as he is. That's strength, but you have to be aware of it.
You can quickly compare yourself to others on social media, such as Instagram. How are you doing with that yourself?
Capristo: Unfortunately, this app, which in my opinion initially had a good intention, has developed into a little monster that consciously trains us to make a comparison. I am probably too influenced by the documentary "The Social Dilemma". But I think we all know that what is on this little screen is not reality, and that has to be remembered over and over again. Of course I also find myself in moments in which I feel influenced, but it is very important to me to have my happiness in my real life and to protect it. I think it is fundamentally important in life that you do things for yourself and not to impress other people.
How do you personally escape the pressure for more self-optimization that prevails in our digital world?
Capristo: I try as hard as I can to distance myself from it. Very conscious. I use the platforms as a place to exchange ideas with many people and to give them a little insight into my world, into my music and also private moments. It is incredibly important to me that people feel comfortable on my platforms and do not feel any pressure. And that's exactly how I want to be, so I don't spend too much time online. I don't want to give out any image or feeling that I am not or don't feel myself.
Do you also take time out from social media to avoid the comparisons and the pressure?
Capristo: Yes, over and over again. I even have phases when I delete the app completely from my phone.
What is your advice to people struggling with self-doubt?
Capristo: I think first of all it is important to remember that we all feel that. That takes the pressure off and is human. Then you think: "Hey, what are my doubts?" and takes a closer look at them. Often times you find that you are putting yourself under complete pressure and you are the only person who thinks that about you. I think it's incredibly important to see your own worth and to go completely out of comparison.
Do you have certain rituals to be more with yourself?
Capristo: Yes, of course. I have an imaginary "happiness list" (smiles). I notice that if I don't do this one day or the other, I feel more stressed. There are things that I've trained myself in the past few years. For example, I mostly meditate in the morning and in the evening. That helps me a lot to bring myself down and after that I feel very much about myself. Especially when I do it for weeks in a disciplined manner. It takes discipline to get into a flow. Then I pay close attention to my thoughts as I speak to myself. That makes a huge difference – just being mindful on all levels.
Mental health is very important to you. Why is it so important to you to draw attention to this?
Capristo: Many people find it difficult to talk about their malaise, especially among the younger generation, who are very influenced by social media. This leaves people feeling isolated and worthless. If I can help people to have the feeling that they can communicate even more difficult topics and that they don't feel wrong about it, but instead get into conversation, get help and not withdraw, then that is going in the right direction.
What advice do you have for people who feel lonely in the corona lockdown?
Capristo: That's not an easy question. It is a very demanding time. I can only speak about myself personally, I try as best I can to be in contact with people who are close to my heart and think of things that I can do myself that make me happy. I think at some point we look back and think: "Did I use this time correctly too?"
Have you already struggled with mental health problems yourself?
Capristo: Yes, in the form of a panic attack. A moment that challenged me a lot and in which I didn't feel safe. It has not been announced, it is totally unexpected. That was completely new to me. At that moment I got help by my side.
With FELICE you have now founded your own platform to strengthen mental health. What are your goals?
Capristo: FELICE conveys positive values, well-being and focuses on mental health. For me, mental health always starts with my own wellbeing. And that's what all the topics at FELICE revolve around. It's about feeling good. About yourself and with yourself. FELICE aims to show people that they are not alone with their issues. We support you in strengthening your self-esteem and accompany you on the way to more satisfaction and inner happiness!
"Enough" is your second song in German after "13 Steps". Will you be singing entirely in German on your new album?
Capristo: That's currently the plan.