Gogo Skhotheni says she mistook depression for calling
Former reality star and podcaster Gogo Skhotheni has taken social media by storm after revealing that her supposed ancestral calling was actually a battle with depression.
In a candid exchange with former Real Housewives of Durban cast member, Slee the Boss Lady, Skhotheni opened up about her decision to walk away from her life as a sangoma.
The former traditional healer’s confession shocked many when she admitted, “You are one of those who simply think they have a calling, kumbe it’s depression. Uzoba strong.” The statement, shared by celebrity blog Maphepha Ndaba, quickly went viral, drawing both support and criticism.
Skhotheni expressed that she was relieved to have distanced herself from what she described as “the dark side” before it consumed her.
“I’m glad I walked away while I still could,” she added, alluding to how her spiritual journey might have taken a toll on her mental health rather than offering healing.
While some followers praised her for her honesty and vulnerability, others weren’t so sympathetic.
Social media user Broox Sammy didn’t hold back, saying, “Gogo Skhotheni needs rehab straight. It is no longer normal. She always has something to say.”
Another user, Kaira Thapelo, shared concern rather than criticism, writing, “Guys, Skhotheni is having a mental breakdown right in front of us. Since her son’s death, she’s been acting weird. She’s not okay.”
Paris Mbombo weighed in with a broader take on spirituality and the misuse of ancestral callings: “They have proper callings until they start doing dark things to be rich. When those things start haunting them, they call ubungoma a dark side. Being spiritually gifted is a beautiful thing because you have a calling to help people… She must tell us what’s haunting her and stop accusing others.”
Gogo Skhotheni’s confession has reignited debate on social media about the line between mental health struggles and spiritual callings.
