Mental Health

Art Tour

That inner turmoil is something he has struggled with for a long time. “Five years ago, I started working on myself seriously, began therapy, and created a 'baseline.' A kind of baseline I can always fall back on, so that I don't have to resort to sedatives.”

A New Way of Coping

For years, Armin used alcohol as a way to relieve tension. “I used to always need two glasses of champagne before going on stage. Now I do a breathing exercise and tell myself: ‘I am okay, no matter what happens.’ That has completely changed the way I deal with stress.”

Since he stopped drinking alcohol, he feels better than ever. “In March, it will be five years since I quit. It has brought me nothing but good: I sleep better, have lost weight, and feel physically and mentally stronger.”

The Gap Between Stage and Loneliness

Een van de grootste uitdagingen in het leven van een DJ is het contrast tussen het podium en de eenzaamheid erna. “Je staat voor tienduizenden mensen, vol adrenaline, en een uur later zit je in een stille hotelkamer. Dat is mentaal zwaar.”

During the COVID-19 period, Armin realized how important connection is. “After Avicii’s passing, I felt that we, as DJs, needed to talk to each other more about mental health. That is why I started a WhatsApp group and Zoom sessions with colleagues during Covid. We discovered that we all struggle with the same challenges.”

The Power of Physical and Mental Health

Armin believes that a healthy mind resides in a healthy body. “It sounds cliché, but it is true. Sleeping well, eating healthy, drinking plenty of water, and exercising really make a difference in how you feel mentally.”

Meditation has also become a regular part of his routine. “I have been meditating for more than a thousand days in a row now. It helps me calm my thoughts and stay closer to myself.”

From Shame to Self-Love

One of the biggest lessons Armin learned is to accept himself. “I was a ‘people pleaser’—I wanted everyone to like me. But because of that, I lost myself. Since I dared to be vulnerable, I have a much more enjoyable life.”

He gives an example: “I’ve had three hair transplants. I used to keep that hidden, but now, on my radio show, I just took off my cap and said: ‘This is me.’ That feels uncomfortable, but it is also liberating. Shame is dangerous. It can destroy you if you don’t dare to be open about it.”

A Message for Young People

For young people struggling with mental health, Armin has a clear message: “Know that you are not alone. Talking helps. Everyone has moments when they feel bad, but the most important thing is that you don’t keep it to yourself. Seek support from friends, family, or professionals. There is always a way forward.”

Armin cites an inspiring quote that has helped him: “The cave you fear holds the treasure you seek.” In other words: the things you are afraid of often contain the greatest lessons and growth.

With his openness about mental health, Armin hopes to inspire others to find their own inner peace. “It is a process, not an end goal. But by taking good care of yourself—mentally and physically—you can face life stronger.”