Gary Levingston captivated fans on “The Golden Bachelorette” with his authentic charm. Now, at 66, he’s venturing into “Bachelor in Paradise,” eager for a new chance at love.
Since the show, Gary has focused on mental health awareness. During Mental Health Awareness Month in May, he partnered with Talkspace to encourage seniors to prioritize their mental health. He hopes this initiative will inspire more older adults to consider therapy, as statistics show younger generations are more proactive in seeking mental health support. In fact, a recent study revealed that nearly 37% of Gen Zers have received treatment, compared to just 22% of baby boomers.
Gary sees the conversations around mental health as essential, especially in his age group. He acknowledges the “generation gap” in addressing emotional well-being. “We were taught to be strong and handle life’s challenges without showing vulnerability,” he reflects. This mindset often keeps older adults from expressing their feelings or seeking help.
He has learned to open up more, partly influenced by his connection with the late Tina Turner, who encouraged him to explore topics like the power of the subconscious mind. Gary emphasizes the importance of uplifting others and being open about one’s feelings, whether in private or on television.
In preparation for his new adventure in “Bachelor in Paradise,” Gary maintains an optimistic outlook. He wants to be genuine and stay true to himself, embracing vulnerability along the way. His experience with mental health challenges has taught him valuable lessons. “Talking to a therapist helped me process my emotions after my divorce,” he notes. “It didn’t save my marriage, but it made me a better person.”
Gary keeps his life active, enjoying sports like pickleball and golf, and he recognizes the need for more mental health support in his routine. He hopes tools like Talkspace can provide that structure for older adults.
As for finding love, Gary is all about staying joyful. “Life is too short to be anything but happy,” he states. He’s committed to enjoying every moment. With a supportive network from “The Golden Bachelorette,” he finds comfort in his friendships and aims to create new memories in “Paradise.”
Gary’s journey showcases the changing attitudes toward mental health among different generations. By sharing his story, he hopes to encourage others—both young and old—to be open about their feelings and seek support.
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