George Pimentel/Getty Images for CAFALady Gaga is mourning the death of her friend, Rick “Zombie Boy” Genest, who appeared in her “Born This Way” video.
Genest, a model and artist known for his skeleton-like full-body tattoos, was found dead of an apparent suicide at the age of 32.
“The suicide of friend Rick Genest, Zombie Boy is beyond devastating,” Gaga tweeted. “We have to work harder to change the culture, bring Mental Health to the forefront and erase the stigma that we can’t talk about it. If you are suffering, call a friend or family today. We must save each other.”
She continued to post messages about mental health and the resources provided by her Born This Foundation.
“Science tells us that it takes 21 days to form a habit, if you are suffering from Mental Health issue I beckon for today to be your first day or a continuation of the work you’ve been doing,” she wrote. “Reach out if you’re in pain, and if you know someone who is, reach out to them too.”
Gaga added, “Kindness and mental health aren’t one time practices. They aren’t just to do list items. This fall, in partnership with @btwfoundation, I’ll explore the power of habits to build cultures of kindness and wellness.”
She included a link to sign up and learn more about the Born This Way foundation.
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