Trigger Warning: I talk about depression and suicide in this post.
(Photo is from wikimedia commons)
If you need support, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 741-741.
It’s 100% okay to ask for help.
Like many people all over the world, Linkin Park was/is a source of validation and solace in dark times. I still find myself listening to their songs when I need the outlet they offer. I’ve never dealt with addiction, but depression and thoughts of suicide, feeling trapped and alone, I understand those feelings. I don’t often get to that dark place as often as I used to (when I was a teen it was horrible), but I still find myself there at times.
When I found out Chester (and Avicii and Robin Williams) had died of mental illness complications, I was incredibly sad. I was sad for him, that the darkness plagued him had finally won. Even people with the financial means for great healthcare have trouble. People we think are somehow not touched by the same problems that get to us regular folks have struggles too. I felt terrible for his bandmates, friends and family because that had to be uniquely painful. Then for his fans, especially those, like me, who had found acceptance in his and Linkin Park’s music. But I was also proud of him, he’d used the depression to create music and songs that touched many. He’d fought that battle for a long time and did amazing things. He helped a lot of people. So #makechesterproud today however you feel that works for you. (Self-care, writing, listening to someone, hugging your pet/friends/family, saying hi to someone you know is struggling, attending a memorial, donating time or money to a cause,…)
For me, I’m sharing a couple things today in addition to self-care and cat snuggles. (I’m having a flare today and I have to do something later and need to rest for it. I was at a funeral yesterday for a family member and I’m a bit wrung out.)
First, this article from The Mighty that includes Linkin Park songs that folks said were influential for them. I would add Iridescent to that list.
Second, memorial events are going on all over the world if anyone wishes to join online or in person.
You are not alone. You matter.
Sending virtual comfort and praise to Linkin Park and Chester’s family and friends.
