I just received word that a friend of mine in Nashville died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Friday. While living in Nashville for many years, Jesse and I were very close. There were no secrets between us, including Jessie's battle with depression.

Jessie kept telling me he can handle the depression and didn't need to see a doctor or mental health worker to cope with the mental illness.

"I have been depressed all my life," Jesse would tell me. "I just don't want to talk about the depression. People will think I'm crazy."

I could tell Jesse was suffering in silence. He very much wanted help, but the stigma surrounding mental illness, including depression, was too much to handle.

I shared Jesse's story with the director of the National Alliance of Mental Illness. He told me 80 percent of Americans are not seeking treatment for the mental disorders.

"I can tell you right now so many people are ashamed because of a mental health disorder.Yet about nine percent of American adults from all walks of life suffer from some form of depression. In fact, major depression is the leading cause of disability for Americans between the ages of 15 and 44. Understanding these very real depression statistics helps paint a fuller picture of the impact of depression in American."

Although Jesse ended his life, there is hope for those of us that are in the midst of major depression and other mental health disorders.

If you're feeling down and don't think life is worth living, talk to a family member, close friend or your family doctor.  I only wish Jesse would have asked for help!

My prayers are with my friend Jesse.

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