Ryan Coogler Shares Insights on Mental Health at Mistah F.A.B.’s ‘THUG Therapy’ – A Groundbreaking Discussion

Oakland – In a heartfelt gathering, rapper and community advocate Mistah F.A.B. led a deep conversation about mental health with filmmaker Ryan Coogler. This talked about his “T.H.U.G. Therapy” initiative. The event took place at Dezi’s Lounge, bringing together many Black men to discuss their feelings and experiences.

Coogler, known for his Oscar-nominated films, shared that this was his first time leading such a discussion. He admitted he felt nervous but found humor in it. “Can I say one thing though… I’m not a thug,” he joked, drawing laughs from the crowd.

The “T.H.U.G.” in T.H.U.G. Therapy stands for Teaching, Healing, Uniting, and Guiding. Mistah F.A.B. started this platform to help men express their emotions and improve their mental well-being. He emphasized the societal pressures that discourage vulnerability. “In our community, if you’re doing nothing, you’re considered lazy,” he said. “We need to talk about overexertion and the toll it can take on mental health.” 

Coogler reflected on his busy life, saying he often feels the need for a “pause button.” “I haven’t developed one,” he admitted. “And that’s not healthy. I have high blood pressure.” This honesty highlighted the struggles many face with work-life balance. Recent studies show that chronic stress can increase the risk of health issues, making discussions like these even more vital. 

Throughout the evening, Coogler encouraged the audience to embrace their stories and emotions. He spoke of his wife, who purchased the software that kick-started his film career. “When she brought that software, I knew I had to take it seriously,” he shared. His story inspired many, including aspiring filmmaker Derrick Wills, who felt nervous about pursuing his dreams. “Seeing Ryan do it his own way inspires me,” Wills said.

Coogler also touched on the effects of his environment. Growing up in a place marked by violence impacted him deeply, though he never directly engaged. Reflecting on his experiences helped him connect with others who faced similar challenges, showcasing the importance of sharing our stories. 

As the night wrapped up, the audience exchanged hugs and applause, leaving with a sense of unity and inspiration. Moments like these are crucial for fostering openness about mental health, especially in communities where such topics are often neglected.

For more insights on mental wellness, you can check out resources available at the National Institute of Mental Health.

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