The Big Bang Theory star Mayim Bialik shares powerful suicide prevention video: ‘We need to remove the stigma'
The Big Bang Theory star Mayim Bialik has shared a moving video message to help raise awareness during Suicide Prevention Month.
The actor, who starred as Amy Farrah Fowler in the hit sitcom, posted the two-minute video to her YouTube channel, revealing that she had been “touched by suicide very, very directly and closely”.
“There’s nothing more important than talking about it, removing the stigma around it,” she said.
“It’s really hard to know what to say. We need to remove the stigma surrounding this. We need better access to help so that people can get help. That’s it. I don’t know what else to say.”
Bialik urged viewers to “please take care of yourself”, particularly during periods of quarantine amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“Those of us who struggle are struggling even more,” she pointed out.
She concluded her video by pledging to continue to address suicide and mental health, in order to honour her loved ones.
Bialik captured the video: “Suicide is never an easy thing to talk about, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t talk about it. I’ve lost people very close to me whom I loved deeply to suicide.”
She also shared helplines in the US for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts: “Please call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK, visit NAMI.org, or text NAMI to 741-741 for help.”
“The world is a better place with you in it. Do not hesitate,” she said.
Watch the full video here.
If you or someone you know needs confidential support or advice, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website
Read more
Charlotte Ritchie: ‘I’m a sceptic – but it must be possible for ghosts to exist’
Us review, BBC One: Tom Hollander shines in this funny and acutely observed Sunday night drama
