Stars Play Role In Addressing Mental Health

By Genoa Barrow | OBSERVER Senior Staff Writer More than ever, Black celebrities are using their fame and platforms to address mental health and reduce stigma. Award-winning actress Taraji P. Henson Award-winning actress Taraji P. Henson has been open about her own struggles with mental health issues, including having suicidal thoughts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Henson created the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her father, who battled PTSD and bipolar disorder after returning from the Vietnam War.  The foundation encourages the Black community to seek help and support without fear or shame. In 2019, the “Empire” actress discussed mental health and the Black community before Congress. Henson also has collaborated with fashion label Kate Spade to provide free therapy sessions and supportive practices for women on HBCU campuses. Actor Kofi Siriboe Actor Kofi Siriboe, known for memorable roles in “Queen Sugar,” “Insecure” and “Girls Trip,” also creates notable short films through his production company, Viakofi. In 2018, Siriboe put out two films that addressed mental health in the Black community, “WTFIMH – What the F*** Is Mental Health?” and “Jump.” He was inspired to tackle the subject after losing a close friend and mentor to suicide and his own...