With many being forced to stay home and isolate in an effort to fight the pandemic, it can take a toll on mental health. Actress Taraji P. Henson was among those who were severely affected by the new norm, so much so that she even contemplated taking her own life.
In December 2020, Henson had opened up about her experience on her Facebook Watch show Peace Of Mind, alongside co-host Tracie Jade and psychologist LaShonda Green. What helped her through the healing process was sharing the struggle with her viewers.
The 51-year-old actress shared some updates on her mental health in an interview with Entertainment Tonight on Oct 5.
"(I'm) much better. It's called suicide ideation and it's not that you're really gonna go forth with it, it's just thoughts running through your mind when you're at your lowest," the Empire actress said.
Henson said she needed to express her thoughts verbally to get it out of her head. "I understand that I have to say it out loud so I can hear how ridiculous that sounds to me. I get to hear it and then and it's not such a heavy thought anymore," she explained.
Jade was thankful that her co-host was able to seek professional help instead of keeping it to herself. On their show, Henson and Jade speak on mental health issues among the Black community. Among guests who have appeared on their show are celebrities such as Megan Thee Stallion, Chance The Rapper and Bretman Rock.
- Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935/ 014-322 3392)
- Talian Kasih (15999/ 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp)
- Jakim’s (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) family, social and community care centre (0111-959 8214 on WhatsApp)
- Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929 or go to befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers nationwide and operating hours, or email sam@befrienders.org.my).
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
