This morning, Chester Bennington, the 41-year-old lead singer of the American rock band Linkin Park, was found dead in his home. I first read the story when it was broke by TMZ, and saw the news picked up by many other sources. LAPD says that they are treating his death as a suicide, which is something that seemed to surprise no one. It was well known that Bennington had struggled with depression and used and abused alcohol and recreational drugs. Bennington said himself in interviews that he was the victim of sexual abuse at a young age.
While his suicide is a tragedy and the music community will undoubtedly be in mourning for a period of time, Bennington's death has sent a very important message: depression is blind. Depression knows no age, no gender, no sexuality and no status. Regardless of how many fans he had, regardless of the money he made, and regardless of the fame he enjoyed, he still struggled with his mental health.
Depression is something that can happen to anyone. It can strike at any time, it can appear suddenly or gradually, as a nudge in the back of your mind or a train hitting you at full speed. It can blossom from trauma or it can simply appear. You might not know if someone has depression, while you might see others with very obvious symptoms. My point is this: if you know someone who has depression, even if they seem completely fine, reach out every once in a while. Simple gestures can be so meaningful.
If you are someone with depression, do not be afraid to ask for help. It is easier said than done, of course, but there are people and organizations and resources who want to reach out and help in any way they can.
I personally hope that this article reaches someone who just needs to hear some kind and affirming words today. It is so important that people are made aware of mental illnesses and understand that it does not affect everyone the same way. As someone with depression, I sure needed to hear something positive after hearing the news today.
Remember, depression does not make you less of a person. You are important, people care for you, and you are valid in your existence.
Some of the resources I mentioned are listed below.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Depression Resource Center
Rest in peace, Chester. I enjoyed the music you made for many years and I will continue to enjoy it. My thoughts and well wishes go out to his family, especially his six children, and his band mates.
