April 5th marked the 25th anniversary of Kurt Cobain’s death.
Frontman to the 90s grunge rock band, Nirvana, Cobain’s memory still touches the lives of so many.
A half a decade after his tragic death, fans took to social media and gathered at Viretta Park in Seattle to leave memorials honoring the rock legend. People left messages, including some that read “find your place” and “save your friends.” Former bandmates paid tribute to Cobain with one simple message on Twitter. Alongside a picture of Cobain standing on stage, the post read, “Kurt – You left us 25 years ago. You mean so much to so many.” [1]
The late singer took his own life on April 5, 1994 at his home near Lake Washington, after years of battling heroin addiction and mental health. Cobain was only 27 years old.
While fans and friends paid tribute, the most meaningful and powerful message comes from his daughter, Frances Bean Cobain. Deciding to take this time to shine light on mental health, Cobain shared the following message on her Instagram story:
“If you are struggling with your mental health and need someone to talk to please do not be afraid to reach out to your friends, neighbors, parents, counselors, teachers or even strangers on the internet. Needing help is not a weakness. Let’s end the stigma and shame towards the struggle with mental health.” In the post she also included the National Prevention Lifeline number.
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Having her own struggles with addiction and mental health, Frances has been known for calling out the mental health stigma in the United States. Last year, at the “Growing Up Kurt Cobain” show in Dublin, she told Reuters, “It’s taboo…despite the fact that it is present in our society every single day. And I think that in Europe it is a little less taboo, I think in America it is very, very frowned upon.” [2]
She went on to say, “There is an association that is shameful and it shouldn’t be.”
Unfortunately, there is truth to Cobain’s statement. While our country has come a long way in recognizing mental health and addiction as a disease, many still see it as reprehensible and something to be embarrassed of. While these associations are due to a lack of understanding, the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction is typically what stops someone from seeking the help they so desperately need.
At Banyan Treatment Centers, we understand the struggles and uncertainty that come with mental health. We know your pain and can offer you a way out. If you or someone you love is currently suffering from a mental health or substance use disorder, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. With comprehensive treatment services and 24-hour support, our team of professionals will provide you with the care and understanding you have been searching for.
Please contact us today at 888-966-9413 to learn more about our programming and levels of care.
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