DeShaun Williams’ journey is one of resilience, transformation, and impact. After battling one of the darkest periods of his life, he emerged not only as a survivor but as a voice of hope for countless others. Today, he is a mental health advocate, speaker, and author, using his story to challenge stigmas, inspire openness, and push for meaningful change. His mission is deeply personal yet universally relevant, reminding us all of the power of vulnerability and the importance of compassion. Humans of Fuzia is honored to share his story with our 5M+ community, carrying forward our mission of supporting and empowering voices worldwide.
Q: What sparked your journey into mental health advocacy?
A: Back in 2018, I was in the worst state of depression I had ever faced. I attempted to take my own life, but the attempt “failed successfully.” That moment pushed me to get the help I needed. Once I found healing, I realized staying silent wasn’t an option—I had to share my story. I began with my own podcast, then joined others, speaking about the importance of mental well-being, especially men’s mental health. Society often tells men to “man up” and suppress emotions, but I wanted to challenge that narrative. Over the years, I’ve worked with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, advocated for policies, written an autobiography, and created journaling prompts to help others reflect and heal.
Q: What challenges have you faced in spreading your message?
A: One of the biggest challenges is the stigma itself. Many people dismiss mental health struggles or see suicidal ideation as attention-seeking. That mindset is dangerous. The truth is, the signs are there, but society often chooses to ignore them. I’ve learned to tackle this by showing the facts, the statistics, and by reminding people that timing and empathy are just as important as advice. The fight against stigma is ongoing, but every conversation moves us forward.
Q: What achievements are you most proud of so far?
A: My proudest achievement is being able to tell my story through my autobiography and knowing that, in my late 20s, I’m making a real difference. Whether directly or indirectly, people see my work and acknowledge it. But for me, it’s not about fame or accolades—it’s about impact. If even one life is changed because of my advocacy, then I’ve succeeded.
Q: What are your thoughts on women’s leadership today?
A: I admire how women are refusing to let societal expectations limit them. They’re creating opportunities for themselves, showing the world that they don’t need permission to succeed. To the women still waiting for someone else to give them a chance, I say—stop waiting. Go out and create your own opportunities.
Q: What advice do you have for future women leaders and entrepreneurs?
A: Don’t wait for doors to open—build your own doors. Even if you hear “no” a hundred times, let that fuel your determination. The workplace is no longer just male-dominated, and women are proving every day that they can achieve just as much, if not more.
Q: How do you define success?
A: Professionally, success is making a difference in someone else’s life, whether directly or indirectly. Personally, it’s knowing that no matter the struggles you’ve faced, you’ve come out stronger on the other side.
“My story is proof that no matter how dark things get, there’s always a way to turn pain into purpose. We can all make a difference—one conversation, one act of compassion, at a time.” – DeShaun Williams
Connect with DeShaun Williams: (3) Dr. DeShaun Williams | LinkedIn
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