During the second week of December 2022, the entertainment world was shocked by the news of Stephen “tWitch” Boss’ death by Suicide.

Not only because tWitch always seemed to be a joyous and caring person, but, perhaps especially, because this happened a mere three days after celebrating his 9th wedding anniversary.

However, as it happens with the news cycle, the more time passes, the less we hear or talk about a problem that is not only complex but also more prominent than we seem to believe.

Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the United States, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and this is not just for adults. It is the 3rd leading cause of death for ages 10-19, 2nd leading cause for ages 20-34, and 4th leading cause for ages 35-44.

The impact that Twitch’s death has had in public opinion certainly brings the interest back into the need for support on Suicide Prevention, but it is not a new occurrence in the entertainment industry; some other recognized names are Robin Williams, Kris Cornell, Lucy Gordon, Mark Salling… to name a few. Yet, the conversation about suicide prevention remains taboo.

Suicide doesn’t occur in a vacuum, nor is it a “sudden” decision. Suicidal ideation is very common; according to statistics, 10% of adults in the United States have thought of suicide. This doesn’t mean that they will follow through, but it does show a situation that must be addressed, and that is how to effectively prevent it and what kind of support is available for those who idealize suicide and those who are affected by suicide.

One such support tool is the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Line, which offers 24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress and their loved ones. Another tool available for those who are affected by suicide is NAMI Racine County’s Survivors of Suicide Support Group which offers a confidential and safe space for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

One important thing tWitch’s death by suicide brings to our attention is that the external appearance doesn’t always match the internal struggle of a person. Twitch looked like a happy man, father, and husband, and probably, he was, but inside of him, there was a noise distorting all that happiness that nobody else could hear.

Let us learn from this tragic situation and be more understanding and compassionate with each other, but also of ourselves, reaching out to others when we need to and allowing healthy spaces for our minds and for others.

Even though the public perception in the U.S. about suicide and mental health, physical health is still treated as more important than mental health, awareness, and willingness to learn how to help those in need keep increasing.

Suicide can be prevented, but for prevention to be effective, we need to learn what resources are available in our network and how to access them.