Mychal Threets, the 36-year-old librarian and host of the Reading Rainbow revival on YouTube, shared a raw mental health update on Instagram Saturday, October 10, timed to World Mental Health Day. In the video, he told followers he is not OK and said he believes he is running out of time. He also made his position clear: he wants to stay, he’s trying to stay, and he is asking for help.
The update follows a pattern of openness from Threets. In August, he posted that he was seeking treatment, and he later revealed he had completed a five-day psychiatric hold. His latest message thanked the people who have stayed with him, and he said he intends to keep pursuing joy even while he’s struggling.
Reading Rainbow originally aired on PBS from 1983 to 2006, hosted by LeVar Burton, and Threets now carries that legacy for a new generation online. His willingness to name what he’s going through can help fans feel less alone. If you or someone you know needs support, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available by call, text, or chat.
Who in your life could use a check-in today?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.