Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton recently revealed in a heartfelt interview on Jay Shetty’s podcast, ‘On Purpose,’ that he had experienced one of the darkest nights of his life involving suicidal thoughts. Appleton, renowned for styling the hair of A-list celebrities, shared his struggles with mental health and how they were intertwined with his journey of coming to terms with his sexuality. The 42-year-old father of two opened up about feeling that being a gay father would be too much for his children to bear, leading to his suicidal ideations.
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Appleton, who shares two children with his former partner Katie Katon, expressed his internal conflict and fear of being different, especially when it came to revealing his sexuality to his loved ones. Coming out to Katon was an emotional challenge for Appleton as he grappled with his desire to be a ‘normal dad’ for his kids. The hairstylist reflected on the difficulty of disclosing his sexual orientation to his children, mentioning that he felt like a ‘disease’ and wanted to shield his kids from potential torment due to his preferences.
The moment when Appleton’s children were informed about his sexuality by Katon’s mother marked a turning point for the family dynamic. The hairstylist recounted feeling like he had failed as a father, not being able to protect his children from the emotional turmoil caused by his revelation. The weight of the situation pushed Appleton to the brink, culminating in a harrowing night when he contemplated ending his life as a means of sparing his family from further pain.
During this dark period, Appleton made a fateful decision that ultimately saved his life. After consuming a lethal combination of pills and alcohol, he found himself in a hospital, facing the reality of his actions. The experience served as a wake-up call for Appleton, prompting him to confront his inner struggles and accept his true self. This pivotal moment led him to embrace his identity and choose to live authentically, setting him on a path of self-acceptance and resilience.
In the aftermath of his suicide attempt, Appleton’s perspective shifted, driving him to speak out about his mental health journey in the hopes of inspiring others facing similar challenges. By sharing his story, the celebrity hairstylist aims to shed light on the importance of seeking help and breaking the silence surrounding mental health issues. Appleton’s candid account serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and self-acceptance in overcoming life’s darkest moments.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or simply needs to talk, resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can offer support. By encouraging open conversations and destigmatizing mental health struggles, individuals like Chris Appleton are paving the way for a more compassionate and understanding society. The hairstylist’s journey serves as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for transformation and healing in the face of adversity.