In a heartfelt message to his followers, singer and actor Joshua Bassett has bravely shared his struggles with mental health, including his experiences with suicidal thoughts and addiction. The 25-year-old artist took to Instagram recently to reflect on his past battles and to promote awareness of suicide prevention, in collaboration with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
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In a candid video, Bassett revealed the depth of his struggles, recounting a near-fatal moment when he considered jumping off a balcony five years ago. “I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve had suicidal thoughts,” he stated. He further highlighted alarming statistics, noting that suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 35 in the United States, claiming over 49,000 lives each year.
The singer, known for his song “Easier,” is using his platform not only to share his personal narrative but also to encourage others who may be experiencing similar feelings. He announced his commitment to raising funds whilst participating in the New York City Marathon as a means of supporting NAMI: “They save millions of lives with the work that they do. They are a resource for people struggling or who know someone who’s struggling,” he explained.
Bassett expressed the urgency for open conversations regarding mental health issues, stating that “shame and helplessness thrive in silence.” He hopes to spark dialogue around mental illness to destigmatise the subject and encourage others to reach out for help. The singer admitted that running a marathon presents a significant challenge for him, as the only marathon-like event he has participated in is a “turkey trot,” making this a personal milestone in his journey to raise awareness.
He emphasised the importance of seeking help and provided immediate resources for those in need. “If you or anyone you know is struggling, please call or text 988,” he urged, directing viewers to the NAMI fundraiser he has set up to help others facing mental health challenges.
Bassett’s openness about his journey is not a new theme for him. Earlier this year, he spoke candidly on the “More Life with Carl Radke” podcast about his battle with substance abuse, revealing that he began drinking at just 14 years of age in an effort to fit in. This unhealthy coping mechanism spiralled into a severe addiction to ketamine and other substances, leading to a near-death crisis in 2021.
Reflecting on that troubling period, he shared, “I was like 23 when things got really out of hand. It should have killed me, the level of [substance use]. It really was like a daily nightmare.” Bassett described his life as a series of distressing attempts to escape reality, stating, “Every day was just an attempt to disappear.”
Although Bassett is no longer in the grip of addiction, he admitted he is still navigating the complexities of recovery, noting that he is “not stone-cold sober.” He spoke about implementing accountability measures with close friends to stay grounded. “My roommate and my best friend, we have a system of accountability,” he shared, adding that the fear of breaking a promise to them keeps him in check.
Ultimately, Bassett’s commitment to raising awareness about mental health reflects the increasing need to address these critical issues publicly. He aims to show others that they are not alone in their struggles, a sentiment that is all too important in a world where many suffer in silence.
For anyone grappling with mental health concerns, emotional distress, or substance abuse, help is readily available. You can call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for support 24/7. Bassett’s message serves as a reminder that seeking help is a sign of strength, and that with the right resources, recovery and hope are possible.