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GENERAL HOSPITAL

Maurice Benard Shares an Important Message for National Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and this year, Sept. 6-12 is National Suicide Prevention Week, and Thursday, Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. So GENERAL HOSPITAL star Maurice Benard (Sonny) had some heartfelt words to share on the subject, speaking from experience. “Here’s what I want to say to anybody who’s feeling a certain way,” he declared. “Darkness, pain, negative thoughts, bad thoughts, not wanting to be there thoughts, whatever it is. Go to someone who loves you or who you love. Your mama, your papa, your brother, your sister, your friend… Go to them and say, ‘Can I talk to you for a second? I really think I need help.’

“That’s it,” Benard continued. “Just do it. I know sometimes it’s difficult, especially for men. We think it’s not possible but it’s possible. You think you can’t, but you can.” The Twitter video then urges anyone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts or knows someone who is to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-TALK (8255). You can also reach out to the Crisis Text Line by texting 741741.

The GH Emmy winner has always been open about his struggle with bipolar and speaking out on the subject of mental health to try and help others suffering from the same issues. The clip Benard shared on Twitter came from his longer “State of Mind” video posted on Sept. 6 to YouTube where he expands upon the subject talking about how the coronavirus situation has aggravated an already unbearable situation for many struggling with mental health. You can watch the entire video right here.

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