Karl-Anthony Towns discusses grief for World Mental Health Day

NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns shared his personal journey with grief during a World Mental Health Day event in New York. Speaking to an audience gathered by the nonprofit Project Healthy Minds, Towns discussed the emotional impact of losing his mother to COVID-19 complications six years ago.

Towns noted that the loss initially made basketball feel ‘hollow’ and caused him to question his desire to continue playing. He credited finding solace through conversations with strength and wellness coach Arnie Kander, stating that being able to articulate his feelings made life ‘much lighter.’

The event, hosted by Project Healthy Minds, aims to use Towns’ experience to encourage others to seek mental health services, such as therapy and support groups.