American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Statement Regarding Don Cornelius

News provided by

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Feb 01, 2012, 12:48 ET

NEW YORK, Feb. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- "We are saddened to learn about the apparent suicide of Don Cornelius, creator of 'Soul Train.' Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family, friends, colleagues and fans. Sadly, suicide cuts short the lives of far too many people and takes an enormous toll on those left behind," said Robert Gebbia, executive Director of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Suicide is often mischaracterized as a response to a single life event or set of highly stressful circumstances. However, suicide is much more complicated. The factors that contribute to any particular suicide are diverse and complex. Research shows that more than 90 percent of people who die by suicide have an underlying mental disorder at the time of their death, most often depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or drug or alcohol addiction.

We know that one of the best ways to prevent suicide is through early recognition and vigorous treatment of these underlying mental disorders. This requires decreasing the stigma and misinformation so that more people will be more willing to seek out help. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please know that you are not alone and that help is available by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255).

Media reporting about suicide should refer to the national media recommendations at www.afsp.org/media or www.reportingonsuicide.org.

SOURCE American Foundation for Suicide Prevention