Did you know there’s over 6000 suicides in the UK every year? No, me neither. (latest published figure at 6188)
And 75% are male. With the highest number being men aged 40-44.
The most used method is hanging.
These facts are of course awful and it’s a staggering amount of people. And this obviously doesn’t include the number of attempted suicides or the number of people who self harm. Or the total number of people suffering from any mental health issues.
It saddened me this week to hear about the suicide of 41yr old Chester Bennington – Lead Singer of Linkin Park and father of 6. I was just saying this week to a friend of mine, how brilliant their latest album is (slated by their ‘elite old school’ fans of course).
41 years old – that’s my age. Blokes this age should be in the prime of their lives; the wild growing pain years are over, we’ve partied, gone nuts but now we’re wiser, more mature, secure, know who we are and what we want, surrounded by love, have kids (if you want) and doing something you love which provides a lifestyle you want.
Earlier this year, Chris Cornell ended his life (aged 52) and in 2014, Robin Williams did too (aged 63). People who are in the media are presented as being successful, loved, happy and have ‘made it’. Clearly they were in a very dark place and hiding behind a mask in public; they were also battling deep depression and using drink and drugs to cope. They have achieved lots but are clearly not happy or fulfilled.
We all have our own battles; it’s life. I’ve had mine and I’ll have more. My battles so far have included mental health issues and I got help. With this help, I also had commitment, discipline, desire and patience which resulted in leaving the dark place I was in.
I’m no expert but all I can say is – GET SOME HELP. Recognise that you are in trouble and shout out, just reach out for help. Reach out to me, friends, family or better still, seek professional help. This is a sign of strength.
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