September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and General Hospital stars Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos) and Ryan Paevey (ex-Nathan West) are reaching out to those who may need help.
General Hospital actors are acknowledging that September is National Suicide Prevention Month with special messages aimed at spreading awareness and helping those in need.
Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos), who has been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder and has written an autobiography that details his mental health journey, shared a special video on Instagram.
"It is Suicide Prevention Month. I'm very passionate about this subject, for many reasons," he says. "I've been talking a lot about it, especially lately, and I know how unbearable the pain can be. If you know someone or you are someone who is suffering or having thoughts of not being here anymore, I beg you -- please call someone, talk to someone, get help."
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He continues, "You may think your life doesn't matter, but I'm telling you a hundred percent -- a hundred and fifty percent -- it does."
Ryan Paevey (ex-Nathan West) also took to Instagram with a collection of photos that detail suicide prevention tips like seeking support from a trusted friend, a family member, or a GP.
"Reach out, speak up," he captioned the photos. "It's okay."
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.
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If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
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