Mychal Threets, the librarian-turned-host of Reading Room, marked World Mental Health Day with a video that’s resonating far beyond his usual book recommendations. In the Instagram post, the 36-year-old said he is“not doing well”and believes he is“running out of time,”while vowing to keep pursuing joy every day.
It’s not the first time Threets has been open with fans. In August, he shared that he was seeking help, and later revealed he had completed a five-day psychiatric hold. Since taking over Reading Room for its October 2025 YouTube relaunch, he’s become one of the most beloved voices in children’s media, carrying on a legacy that began on PBS in 1983 with LeVar Burton.
His message ended with four words that hit hard:“I am asking for joy.”If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers free, confidential support by call, text, or chat at 988lifeline.org. So we want to know: who’s the person in your life you should check on today?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.