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Junior Seau, a former NFL star, tragically died by suicide after displaying symptoms of CTE for months. The night before his death, he sent a text to his ex-wife and children that simply said, “I love you.” His ex-wife Gina told ABC News that Seau’s emotional state had been deteriorating and it all made sense now. After his death, neuroscientists tested his brain matter and found definitive proof of CTE, which has been linked to suicidal ideation and mental illness. It is believed that the disease was caused by two decades of Seau hitting his head as a linebacker in the NFL. The NFL released a statement expressing appreciation for the Seau family’s cooperation with the National Institutes of Health and promised to do more research on concussions. At the time of Seau’s passing in 2013, CTE could only be diagnosed in deceased individuals, but the Mayo Clinic has reported that researchers are working to change this.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health issues, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached by dialing 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Crisis Text Line can be contacted by texting HOME to 741741. The National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline can be reached at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264). Additionally, you can visit the National Institute of Mental Health website for more information.
