Lisa Kudrow, the actress best known for her role as Phoebe Buffay in the hit TV series Friends, spoke about the importance of mental health fundraising during the UCLA WOW 2023 Mental Health Summit held on May 4 in Los Angeles.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Kudrow emphasized the significance of funding research for mental health, especially for issues that cannot be addressed through talk therapy or meditation. She believes that the continuous exploration of different ways to address mental health issues is crucial in helping those who are struggling with their mental health.
Kudrow acknowledges the power of laughter in providing relief during dark times, but she also recognizes that the reaction and laughter she received from her work on comedies like Friends was not about her personally. She believes that it is the creative energy that flows through an artist that resonates with the audience.
The actress also shared a personal experience of how watching the sitcom Will & Grace helped her during a difficult time. After the 9/11 terrorist attack, Kudrow found herself constantly watching the news and being reminded of the tragedy. However, watching the fictional world of Will & Grace provided a much-needed break from reality and helped her escape, even for just a few minutes.
Kudrow’s message highlights the importance of taking care of one’s mental health and the role that entertainment and creative outlets can play in providing relief during difficult times. It also underscores the need to continue supporting mental health research to find effective ways to address mental health issues that may not be responsive to traditional therapy.
