GHANAIAN Hip-Hop artist Ko-Jo Cue is advocating more open conversations about mental health, particularly within the entertainment industry.

Ko-Jo Cue, who has been battling mental health issues, believes seeking help demonstrates vulnerability, which is a strength, not a weakness. It signifies a willingness to confront personal challenges and grow from them. 

Sharing his experiences with mental health challenges in a chat with the Graphic Showbiz on Monday, May 19, Ko-Jo Cue, who has been missing in action for over two years, said these discussions must happen more frequently so people understand that they are not alone.

The artist behind the hit single Up & Awake revealed that two traumatic events occurring in rapid succession, combined with the strain of the COVID-19 pandemic, had a profound emotional impact on him, ultimately leading him to pursue therapy.

“In 2020 and 2021, I faced two back-to-back traumatic experiences that pushed me to my limits. I’m intentionally withholding some details as they relate closely to my upcoming projects, both in theme and execution. 

“However, those events occurring so closely together, alongside the pressures of COVID, became overwhelming. It was this situation that drove me to seek therapy and address the challenges I was facing,” he explained.

Ko-Jo Cue, real name Linford Kennedy Amankwaa, articulated how travel became a transformative healing tool for him. (Read Nollywood actor Godwin Nnadiekwe hospitalised after kicked by colleague Zubby Michael on set,  Actor Akrobeto involved in car accident at Konongo(VIDEO))

“I travelled extensively. At one point, I visited Nigeria, then Kenya, spent some time in the US and even lived in Italy for a while. My travels took me all over, including various places here. The essence behind that was simple: a change in environment can often clear your head.

“It’s similar to how tidying up your room can enhance your mental clarity. When you are in a new space, your brain is flooded with fresh information to process, leaving little room for overthinking or moping. It helps you reset,” he shared.

In addition to travel, Ko-Jo Cue disclosed how the passage of time, combined with intentional activities such as therapy, connecting with friends and gardening, played a crucial role in helping him manage his emotions and stay grounded throughout his healing journey. 

Reflecting on the two-year hiatus he took from music, Ko-Jo Cue acknowledged that every moment, even those spent away from the spotlight, held intrinsic value.