Suicide.
When you see this word, you may feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed with emotions. With the recent and unexpected suicide of Chris Cornell, the lead singer and guitarist of Soundgarden and now Chester Bennington, the lead singer of Linkin Park, it’s important that we listen to our loved ones and learn how we can prevent suicide. Some people believe that Cornell’s death might have pushed Bennington over the edge, but there’s no way of ever knowing for sure. Two legendary and iconic voices were taken from this world too soon. I've never been more devastated about a singer passing away than I have about Chester Bennington. Suicide is a terrible tragedy.
Chester and Chris have both helped more people than what they ever knew was possible. Take a moment to think of their families and friends; what they’re going through is devastating. The main point here that I'm trying to make is that even though someone's famous, they can still have normal people problems. Money isn't the key to happiness either, you create your own happiness by being honest with yourself and loving yourself. Someone who commits suicide can’t see life as worth living anymore. Something inside of them was hurting so bad and they felt like they were living in the dark and they don’t have any hope that it will get better. When it seems like that person is starting to feel better, that’s the moment when they’ve already decided what they want to do.
How can we prevent suicide from happening? The answer is education. The warning signs are the first thing we should teach people to recognize. Someone considering suicide often feels depressed, hopeless, irritable and anxious. Talking about feeling worthless, being a burden, having no reason to keep going, unbearable pain, etc., are all red flags in someone thinking of suicide. Often, their behavior will change as well. Like isolation from family and friends, increased drug and/or alcohol use, change in sleeping patterns etc.
So, what if you know the risk factors and warning signs and are concerned for someone’s safety? Encourage the person to seek professional help. By encouraging them to talk to someone, whether that is you or a professional; talk is good. Listening is the best thing you can do. You are never alone!
If you or someone you know are struggling, call the suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or text HELLO to 741-741 to be connected with a trained crisis counselor at Crisis Text Line.
Rest in peace, Chester and Chris. We hope you are both at peace and are in a better place now.
