by Joye C. Anestis
There has been much publicity lately about the death by suicide of 18-year-old Tyler Clementi. The tragic story, that Tyler's death was precipitated by anti-gay bullying, has found its way to multiple news agencies and internet platforms. A large number of celebrities have created online videos, telling about their own histories as bullying victimes, their own past thoughts of suicide, and the repeated, important message that things do get better. I thought I'd share one of the more moving videos I've come across. In it, Project Runway's Tim Gunn briefly and eloquently shares the story of his teenage suicide attempt and his gratefulness that the attempt was unsuccessful. You can watch it below.
We've spent alot of time at PBB talking and writing about suicide, as we believe it is important for people to know that scientists are devoting their lives to understanding and preventing suicide and we also believe in the importance of sharing the knowledge gained from science with everyone. You can access our previous articles here.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, there are many many people out there ready to help. I want to share two resources. The first is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK, a free, confidential, 24-hour helpline for those in distress. I also want to point out the Trevor Project, 1-866-488-7368. This is another free, confidential, 24-hour national helpline, but it is specifically geared toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth.
Joye Anestis is a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology at Florida State University.
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