Jason Bean/AP
The world is mourning the death of Cheslie Kryst, the 2019 winner of the Miss USA pageant and entertainment correspondent, after jumping to her death in the early morning of January 30, in Midtown New York.
Police reported that Kryst jumped from her Manhattan apartment building and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family confirmed her death in a statement.
"In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie. Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength... Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney fighting for social justice, as Miss USA and as a host on EXTRA. But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague – we know her impact will live on."
Kryst's death has come as such a shock because most would assume she lived a lavish life, full of glitz, glam, and stardom, thus, her battle with high-functioning depression has left many at a loss for words.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for people to hide their mental health struggles like Cheslie did. In response to her death, many are coming forward in sharing their own battles with mental health, creating an even bigger topic of conversation... why is it taboo to speak on mental health issues publicly if you are one that's struggling.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (en Español: 1-888-628-9454; deaf and hard of hearing: 1-800-799-4889) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.