News broke out about an hour ago regarding celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain’s passing, and when it was revealed that the cause of death was suicide, I can’t help but feel a certain sadness within me.
I’m not his biggest fan, nor am I a follower of his show but I do know of him and his desire to introduce delicacies from various cultures to the rest of the world. Judging by how people describe him online and on TV, he seems like a good dude. This just makes the thought of him taking his own life all the more harrowing.
On the surface, it’s hard to fathom how people like Anthony and renowed luxury bag designer Kate Spade, who also committed suicide a few days ago, could reach a point where they feel like it’s pointless to go on. They have wealth, luxuries, they’re at the top of their respective games, they seem genuinely happy. But that’s the thing with depression. It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor or famous or unknown. It’s not a choosy disease. It gets to everyone. No one is immune.
It really sucks that we only think of depression and suicide whenever someone commits it — be it an idol or a personal friend or whoever — when, in actuality, it’s present all the time. Behind the smiles and laughter is a person potentially suffering silently. And sometimes, we may never know until it’s too late. People often would never bring it up, maybe because of the fear of being judged. There’s still this ongoing stigma in society regarding mental illness that keeps victims from seeking the help they need or deserve. It’s time for us to rid ourselves of that stigma, and it all starts with a better understanding of mental health.
I’m not an expert on this topic, (but I strongly suggest we educate ourselves more about mental health) but what I can offer, though, is that I’m here for you if ever you feel not okay. Everybody could use a friend when they’re going through hard times. I want to be that friend.
My Twitter and Instagram (@xKENNANx) DM’s are always open if you need a friend or just someone to talk to. Same goes for my Facebook. Just send me a message there — be it at 12 noon or 3 AM, I’m a vampire. Just shoot a message. You don’t have to fight your battles alone.
I can’t begin to imagine the pain felt by those left behind. I just want to do what I can to prevent people I know from ever experiencing that.
Stay safe please.
patrickkennan.com 