According to reports, every 45 seconds someone takes their life. It’s estimated that 703,000 people die by suicide each year around the world. September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day, a day established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organization, or WHO.
The day was created to focus on the issue of suicide, reducing the stigma, and raising awareness. The singular message is that suicide can be prevented.
According to WHO, “‘Creating hope through action’ is the triennial theme for the World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021 – 2023. This theme is a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and light in all of us.”
Logic’s Song Helped Save Lives
In 2017, rapper Logic performed his hit song “1-800-273-8255” at the 2017 MTV Video Music Awards at The Forum. The song was written to help people struggling with thoughts of suicide. After his performance, calls to the number, which belongs to the US National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, increased by 50%.
According to a report by CNN in December 2021, “Now a new study finds that in addition to nearly 10,000 more calls to the 1-800-273-8255 lifeline, there was also a 5.5% reduction in suicides among 10-to-19-year-olds during three time periods: the first 34 days after the song’s release, Logic’s performance at the 2017 MTV awards and an additional widely promoted performance at the 2018 Grammy Awards.”
Logic told CNN, “To know that my music was actually affecting people’s lives, truly, that’s what inspired me to make the song. We did it from a really warm place in our hearts to try to help people. And the fact that it actually did, that blows my mind.”
Over the years, the music and film industries have lost many to suicide. Sadly, the list is very long. Some on the list include Robin Williams, Kurt Cobain, Mindy McCready, Freddie Prinze, Naomi Judd, Sawyer Sweeten, Verne Troyer, Michael Hutchence, Avicii, and many others.
Robin Williams
The death of Robin Williams was one that shocked the world in 2014. Known for his infectious laugh, comical attitude, and amazing acting skills, the loss of Williams left a huge mark on Hollywood and the rest of the world.
Throughout his long career, Williams played in many popular movies such as “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Good Will Hunting,” “Good Morning, Vietnam,” “Night at the Museum,” “Patch Adams” and many others. He battled drug and alcohol addiction as well as depression in his life.
Kurt Cobain
Kurt Cobain, the lead guitarist, and vocalist of Nirvana, died by suicide in 1994 at the age of 27. He struggled with addiction and depression in the last few years of his life.
Cobain formed the band Nirvana in 1986, and they recorded their debut album “Bleach” in 1989. In February 1992, he married fellow musician Courtney Love, and the two welcomed their daughter Frances Bean Cobain months later.
Anthony Bourdain
Celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain died by suicide in 2018 at the age of 61. He was often called the “original rock star” of the culinary world. He was known as a celebrity chef, travel documentarian, television personality, and writer.
Bourdain was open about his previous drug addiction and that he struggled with depression for much of his adult life. He also reportedly thought he was a narcissist. He suffered in silence and tried to ignore his mental health issues.
Chris Cornell
Chris Cornell, the Soundgarden frontman, had a long history of drug abuse and depression. He died by suicide at the age of 52 in 2017. Cornell died while on tour after reuniting after a long hiatus. After a show in Detroit, Michigan, he went back to his hotel room and the night took a tragic turn.
Verne Troyer
Actor Verne Troyer died by suicide at the age of 49 in 2018. Known for his roles in “Austin Powers,” “Men in Black,” and various television shows, he struggled with depression. In a statement posted on social media by Troyer’s reps, they described him as a fighter.
“Over the years he’s struggled and won, struggled and won, struggled and fought some more, but unfortunately this time was too much,” the statement read. “Depression and suicide are very serious issues. You never know what kind of battle someone is going through inside.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available. The 24/7 Suicide Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988. You can also chat at 988lifeline.org. Visit the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for more information at 988lifeline.org.
