By: Caroline Burkhart//
Suicide prevention and mental health are two of the topics that are nearest and dearest to my heart. As someone who deals with anxiety and depression on a daily basis, I have learned that some days have many highs, and some days have many lows.
When Chester Bennington took his own life the world was both shocked and devastated. How could someone so successful with an adoring family arrive at such a dark place? It’s one of those things that we will unfortunately never be able to fully understand. Depression is a demon that nobody on this earth should have to deal with.
Recently, his wife released a video of the Linkin Park frontman laughing and smiling with his family just days before his death. That is one of the saddest things of all. Suicide is something that other people often don’t see coming. Thankfully, there are so many incredible organizations out there that advocate for suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Although we all have a long way to go in breaking the stigma, I am proud to live in a world where some incredible resources exist.
One of my favorite organizations that focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention is To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA, for short). This organization is absolutely incredible and I highly recommend that you check out their website and social media accounts. Their posts always make me feel better when I am having a tough day and remind us all that we are NEVER alone.
Also, if you haven’t yet heard the song 1-800-273-8255 by Logic, you should really give it a listen. I will never forget the first time I heard that song and how much it means to me. Having a song in which the title is the suicide prevention hotline is something unlike any artist has done before, and it’s the most incredible thing for mental health awareness. I have nothing but the utmost admiration and respect for Logic. In regards to this number, if you or someone you know needs help, this is the number to call. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, because it could save a life. Again, the number is 1-800-273-8255.
I have so many things I could say and want to say, but it’s so hard to give justice to a topic that means so much to me and so many others. Chester Bennington will never be forgotten, along with all of the others who are not with us anymore as a result of suicide. I urge you to take time to appreciate yourself and realize how special you are. So often we forget the value that we each bring to this world.
Music has been a form of therapy for me throughout my life, and I have so many incredible artists to thank for that. They are able to make music that conveys everything I try to say, but never can quite find the words for. So thank you Chester Bennington, Logic, Demi Lovato, and so many others. Thank you for reminding us all to keep fighting.
