Anthony Bourdain was the best of the best in many fields – from the kitchen to the media to books and more. He advocated for so much and brought a rise of excitement in everything he did. So, what happened? According to CNN, Anthony Bourdain was working in France on an episode for “Parts Unknown”. Eric Ripert, a great friend of his and French chef, went into Bourdain’s hotel room on Friday morning, June 8, 2018. Bourdain was found unresponsive. At 61 years of age, he had taken his own life. This news hit the media, close friends, acquaintances and fans hard. It was a shock to so many and he will be truly missed by them all.
What Were Some of the Comments Made After Bourdain’s Death?
As mentioned, the news of Bourdain’s death stunned so many. One of his good friends, Michael Ruhlman, stated he knew Bourdain was happy and in love. His friend, Andrew Zimmern said “Tony was a symphony”. Others statements after Bourdain’s death included:
“Tony will be greatly missed not only for his work but also for the passion with which he did it,” Zucker wrote.
“His talents never ceased to amaze us and we will miss him very much,” CNN said in a statement.
CNN’s chief international correspondent, Christiane Amanpour, called Bourdain a “giant talent.” My heart breaks for Tony Bourdain,” she wrote on Twitter. “May he rest in peace now.”
These are just some of the many comments, memories and thoughts surrounding the death of Anthony Bourdain.
What is Happening with the Suicide Rates in America?
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has many statistics on suicide and the rates in America. It is shocking to know, for example, that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States of America or that 44,965 Americans die by suicide every year. People of all ages are attempting or committing suicide.
Suicide is becoming a bigger issue in America. In fact, many studies are showing that these rates have rise by around 25% all over America in just the last 2 decades. Some states are even seeing more than a 30% increase in suicide rates, over these past couple years. It is important to know, if you are feeling suicidal or having any suicidal thoughts, there are many hotlines to help. If you have developed an addiction and that is causing suicidal thoughts or making them worse, there is help. Suicide and addiction are linked and you can get the help you need.
What is the Connection Between Addiction and Suicide?
In some cases, it may be more difficult to see, as some people are better at hiding their depression or suicidal thoughts. For example, in the case of Anthony Bourdain, he had started using drugs earlier in his life and that led to a heroin addiction. Later on throughout his life, he mentioned his addiction and talked about it. However, even with an addiction and recovering from it, he still pursued dreams and passion. It was a risk for CNN to take him onto the network, but they still did. The show was a hit.
Even in that last few weeks of Anthony Bourdain’s life, he stated how excited he was for the airing of an episode. One of Bourdain’s most often stated quotations was this “If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean or simply across the river. Walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food.”
To most people, that doesn’t sound like a man who would commit suicide, but the truth is, it was hidden well. This happens far too often. People don’t speak out for a variety of reasons and then it shocks so many.
Those who have an addiction to drugs or alcohol suffer in their own way. They may have past traumatic events that trigger them or cause extreme pain. There are so many reasons why people develop an addiction, pinpointing one reason why there is such a huge correlation between addiction and suicide would be impossible.
However, everyone should know this. Alcohol and drugs physically, mentally, psychologically and emotionally affect the body and brain of the user. Chemical changes happen in the brain which make it more difficult to manage emotions and see solutions. Due to the fact of these changes that occur when under the influence, people may not see there are sources to help them deal with depression and suicidal thoughts. They feel alone and that far too often leads to suicide.
If you have an addiction and are thinking about suicide, get help immediately. Even if you don’t have an addiction but you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out for help right away. You are never alone!
