Gavin Rossdale of Bush on the evolution of mental health conversations

Amid their Greatest Hits celebrations, Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale looks back at the beginning of the band's tenure and how discussions surrounding mental health have changed in a positive way since his start in the early '90s.

LISTEN NOW: Gavin Rossdale of Bush on Mental Health Evolutions

Gavin tells us, “The ‘90s was an amazing time, but I've found that the whole discussion around mental health has really improved drastically over the years, to the point where it's not shameful for men to talk about their feelings.”

“It's not shameful for people to own up that [they] don't feel good,” he adds, “and I think in some ways, the strength of our band Bush is that sort of understanding of people and knowing that people are just suffering all the time -- and it's really, really good to have outlets.”

Music, for Rossdale, “is such powerful force – such a powerful elixir,” he says, “it's the best thing to make music that gives people comfort. And there seems to be a lot of a common theme that when I meet people, they've felt that the band has really been there for them emotionally, and that's the greatest compliment we could ever receive.”

When it comes to managing his own mental health, “Like anyone when you feel down and you feel a bit isolated, music can be your best friend,” he explains. “The words or the music -- the way it makes you feel -- can give you that sort of sense of power. Whatever way I feel, there are many bands that will just elevate me and get me out of that bad space.”

Gavin, a father of three, says he tries to teach his children about “self-sufficiency” when it comes to their mental health, and “being empowered” instead of “relying on others for what they think of you, and not relying [on] others to give you the confidence… The feelings should come [from] within. Now, that doesn't mean it's easy for them -- it's really challenging -- but it's all about people's insecurities, and as a father, I just want to make them feel secure. They're strong, individual people, and want to succumb to the inconsistencies of people's opinions about you and stuff like that. The way people judge people and shame you in different ways. You know, it's a jungle out there, so it's a daily thing.”

Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 988. Find a full list of additional resources here .