Darren Criss shares 'colossal shock' of his brother's death with mental health reminder
Darren Criss is mourning the death of his brother with a pertinent reminder about mental health.
The "Hollywood" actor revealed Wednesday that his brother, Charles Criss, 36, had battled severe depression and "succumbed by taking his own life." Criss described the news of his brother's death as "a colossal shock" in a touching Instagram post.
"His loss leaves behind a debilitating fracture in the lives of his mother, his brother, his three small children and their respective mothers," the actor wrote. "I have spent what already feels like a small eternity to wrap my head around it."
Criss said his brother was going through a rough patch and he and his family and friends shared "very vocal concerns" about his mental health that were often met with "protestations that everything was fine."
USA TODAY has reached out to Criss' representative for further comment.
The Golden Globe winner included a reminder that mental health issues are often nuanced and don't "yield simple, convenient" answers of healing.
"It requires a much more complex consideration of where one's mind has to have been to go through something like this," Criss wrote. "It is paramount for me to remind anyone reading this that may be feeling consumed by any similar kind of darkness -- that there is absolutely no shame in feeling shame and furthermore, nothing wrong whatsoever with seeking help."
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Criss ended his post with photos of his brother smiling in photos throughout the years from when they were little to photos of him with his children and family.
Many celebrities commented their condolences and sent love to Criss and his loved ones.
John Stamos wrote: "I love you Darren and I encourage everyone to read what Darren wrote about his brother. I only had the pleasure of being around him twice. But each time, he was sure to leave a strong impression on me. He was very funny- very smart - but mostly very gentle and kind."
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"Oh Darren. Sending so much love to you and your family," "West Side Story" star Rachel Zegler wrote.
"Sending love to your family and his children, partner, all who knew and loved him. What a beautiful tribute to his lasting legacy," Mandy Moore wrote.
John Legend commented: "I’m so so sorry Darren. Thank you for sharing your beautiful tribute to him and using this awful tragedy to help others."
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) any time day or night, or chat online.
Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Darren Criss brother death: Actor describes mental health issues
