Buitenland

London Mayor Sadiq Khan Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles Amid Death Threats

20-05-2023 14:13

Sadiq Khan
Sadiq Khan. LINGTREN.COM / Shutterstock.com

London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, has revealed that receiving regular death threats has taken a toll on his mental health. He described the cumulative effect of dealing with threats and the aftermath of traumatic events, such as terror attacks.

While acknowledging that he has experienced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), he emphasized that he does not equate his experiences with those of asylum seekers and refugees he previously represented as a lawyer.

Therapy

Khan admitted that his mental health deteriorated, affecting his clarity of thinking and leadership abilities. He sought help to understand and address his PTSD, highlighting the importance of openly discussing mental health.

Khan also mentioned the increase in threats he received on social media following interactions with former US President Donald Trump. He pointed out that he faces hostility from both extremist groups and those who believe a Muslim cannot be a Westerner.

Third term

Despite the challenges, Khan, who has been London’s Labour mayor since 2016, intends to seek a third term in the upcoming election.