Frank Zammit Opens Up On Mental Health Struggles: ‘I Was Done And Ready To End It All’
Radio host and well-loved public figure Frank Zammit has opened up on his mental health struggles in the hope of raising more awareness on the issue.
“I don’t know what head space I will be in tomorrow for my birthday. This has been my reality for the past months: a series of highs, lows and new lows,” Frank wrote on social media.
His post comes a day after World Suicide Prevention Day 2022 with statistics finding that almost 83% of suicides in the last 11 years were males.
“On the night between 2nd and 3rd July, I was done and ready to end it all. I’m only here to write about it today because I snapped out of it in the nick of time. On the 4th, I was back on air trying to act normal!”
“I write this today not because I want anyone’s pity. I am lucky to have family and friends I could count on when I needed them.”
“I am getting the help I need and even if I’m still a work in progress, I get a little bit stronger every day.”
“I only write this because the stigma needs to end and something needs to be done.”
“I am done smiling and waving if I’m not feeling ok. I should be able to share my feelings with those around me without worrying my vulnerabilities will be used against me.”
“The world seems to be going through some nervous breakdown. Many are in the same boat and yet we seem to find it easier to ignore it.”
“So here it is… this is me and I’m not always ok… now what are we going to do about the elephant in the room?”
Frank’s post has received a wave of support on social media with many praising the media personality for sharing intimate details about his experience.
“I’m overwhelmed by the hundreds of messages I got in the past three hours, which goes to show it is a reality that cannot be ignored,” Frank told Lovin Malta.”
“I have people texting me dates of when they tried to kill themselves or sharing stories of people close to them who have committed suicide (some very recently). it’s nuts, and just like I said in the post I feel it cannot be ignored any longer.”
Persons who are in crisis can approach the Accident and Emergency department at Mater Dei Hospital or Primary Health Department and seek help from Mental Health Service professionals.
People passing through difficult moments and contemplating Suicide, as well as survivors of these tragic events, can seek help from available services: Suicide Prevention, Outreach and Therapeutic (SPOT) services by appointment on 2122 8333 (Victim Support Malta), Supportline 179 (FSWS) and 1770 (Richmond Foundation).
Anonymous chats such as kellimni.com, Olli chat or Krizi are also an option. One can contact the family doctor or health centre or by speaking to a person of trust.
Public officers can seek the help of the Employee Support Programme (ESP).
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