Chester Bennington, best known as lead singer for the rock group Linkin Park, took his own life on July 20. Authorities told PEOPLE that the singer hanged himself from a bedroom door at his home in Palo Verdes Estates, California on Thursday morning.
This occurred on the heals of Chris Cornell’s apparent suicide, also by hanging, which occurred on May 18 in Detroit, Michigan. Bennington was close friends with Cornell, the front man for the band Soundgarden. In fact, Bennington sang “Hallelujah” at Cornell’s funeral in a haunting performance that now has even more meaning.
Bennington led Linkin Park to great success, becoming Billboard’s No. 1 act of the decade for rock songs and alternative songs. But success doesn’t always equal happiness. The tragic deaths of rock stars Bennington and Cornell remind us that mental health issues don’t discriminate. Everyone is vulnerable, and it’s important to get help before it’s too late.
Know the Signs of Depression
Depression can sneak up on you. Because of this, it’s important to recognize the symptoms before they spiral out of control. Here are some signs of depression to look out for:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies that were once fun
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Physical aches and pains or headaches
- Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” feelings
- Thoughts of suicide
Suicide is a great risk for anyone suffering from depression. Suicidal thoughts should be taken very seriously. If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call a suicide hotline immediately. Call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
If you know the symptoms of depression, you can take action toward getting better when you recognize them in yourself. Be patient with yourself, and enlist the help of your support group. Your support group is anyone that you trust, such as family members, friends or a local support group. We have an online support group that you’re welcome to join for free if you’re not sure where to turn.
When to Get Help
Signs of depression should not be taken lightly. Depression can have a significant impact on your life, and there isn’t always a clear solution. If you feel like depression is taking a toll on your life and relationships, seek professional help. Talk therapy, medications and diet and exercise changes are successful ways to manage depression. The important thing is to seek medical help immediately, and a doctor can lead you in the right direction.
