⚠️TRIGGER WARNING⚠️
Four years ago, Linkin Park front singer Chester Bennington died of suicide. In his last video, 36 hours before his death, you can see him goofing around with his kids. He appears like a happy person. By the standards of our society, he was beyond successful. But this is the harsh truth of depression and suicide. It's a silent killer that can creep into any life. No matter who you are.
When it comes to suicidal thoughts, actions speak louder than words. If someone asked me how I'm feeling I've always said: FINE. Before my last suicide attempt, I told my girlfriend that I will leave for work. With a smile on my face. I had been too afraid to talk about my feelings. How to identify a suicidal phase if you can't trust words? I'm not a professional therapist. I'm just a guy on the internet who chose life more than once. I've been suicidal more than once. Still, I can only speak for myself.
This post is a reflection of my reality. But it doesn't have to be your reality. If you have a gut feeling about someone please reach out to this person. It's better to be safe than sorry. Show some genuine interest in their life. Ask twice how they feel. But don't ask if you don't have the time or interest to listen. It takes a lot to open up. It's nothing you do during a quick chat. Most importantly, listen without prescribing. Don't talk in between or put your autobiography into the story. Seek to understand instead of being understood. You don't feel comfortable talking about suicide but still want to reach out?
Share mental health content you like with them! For example, share this post. For me, the biggest issue was feeling left alone with my suicidal thoughts. Because no one I knew talked about this. Break the stigma and silence today.
In addition to this post, I've written a whole article dedicated to suicide. It's an honest talk about a dark period in my life. In this article, you find everything from why I tried to end my life to how I escaped suicidal thoughts. If you feel stable enough check out my bio. You can find the link there! But once again. I'm not a professional. Just a guy on the internet.