It is clear that mental health does not discriminate.
If you have read the news or tuned in to television over the past day, you might have noticed that the 2019 Miss USA winner, Cheslie Kryst, lost her battle with life.
According to her family, “Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney fighting for social justice, as Miss USA and as a host on EXTRA, But most importantly as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague — we know her impact will live on.”
It may be difficult to encompass and understand mental illness if you have not experienced it yourself. Likewise, you can educate yourself and still be confused as to how someone in the spotlight, with a successful career, might not be able to overcome depression, anxiety, and life stressors.
If we look at celebrities through the years, it becomes a constant reminder that wealth, beauty, and high social status is insignificant.
Here is a list of a few celebrities that have struggled with mental illness that has impacted their daily lives according to Health Guide:
26 Famous People With Mental Illness (Demi Lovato?) – Health Guide Net
Furthermore, Mariah Carey is another celebrity that sought mental health treatment and overcame the stigma:
“Until recently I lived in denial and isolation and in constant fear someone would expose me,” Mariah Carey revealed in a recent interview with People magazine. “It was too heavy a burden to carry and I simply couldn’t do that anymore. I sought and received treatment, I put positive people around me and I got back to doing what I love – writing songs and making music.”
Warning Signs that someone you love might be struggling with suicidal feelings.
There are several warning signs that indicate a potential life threatening concern.
The National Institute of Mental Health identifies the following:
Talking About:
- Wanting to die
- Feeling great guilt or shame
- Being a burden to others
Feeling:
- Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live
- Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated, or full of rage
- Unbearable physical or emotional pain
Changing Behavior:
- Making a plan or researching ways to die
- Withdrawing from friends, giving away things of value, saying goodbye
- Taking dangerous risks
- Displaying extreme mood swings
- Eating or sleeping more or less
- Using drugs or alcohol more often
Suicide Crisis Resources
There are crisis resources below if you believe that you or a loved one are in need. You do not have to feel alone.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK
- If you are in crisis, call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is available to anyone. All calls are confidential.
- Crisis Text Line Text “HELLO” to 741741
- Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime. The Crisis Text Line is here for any crisis. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from a secure online platform. The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool moment.
- Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255, PRESS 1
- If you’re a Veteran in crisis or service member in crisis — or you’re concerned about one — there are caring, qualified VA responders standing by to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Contact 911
- Contact your local police department
- Contact the nearest hospital/crisis center
If you are unsure about taking the next step, you have come to the right place in receiving extra support. A licensed therapist or counselor can help you navigate through this time.
Erica Marriaga is a proud fur-mama of her one-eyed rescue dog, Toby, and new puppy, Tucker. She loves to spend time with her husband and bond with her family, nieces, and nephews. Erica is passionate and enthusiastic about her role as a therapist.
Check out Erica’s professional bio here!
EWC has locations in Manalapan and Shrewsbury, NJ, and accepts a variety of insurances.
Email Us: info@exceptionalwellnesscounseling.com
Call Now: (908) 415-2042
Erica Marriaga is a proud fur-mama of her one-eyed rescue dog, Toby, and new puppy, Tucker. She loves to spend time with her husband and bond with her family, nieces, and nephews. Erica is passionate and enthusiastic about her role as a therapist. NEXT STEPS & RESOURCES
- Are you ready to take your first step? Reach out to us.
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