The Ripple Affect of Suicide: james Longman’s Journey to Understanding Mental Health and loss
When ABC News journalist James Longman describes the impact of suicide, his words are hauntingly vivid: “When someone dies by suicide, it’s like a bomb going off. It kills the person and injures everybody else.” This powerful metaphor encapsulates the profound and far-reaching consequences of suicide, a tragedy that has deeply affected longman’s family.
At just nine years old, Longman lost his father, John, to suicide. John, an artist who suffered from schizophrenia, set his apartment on fire and jumped out the window, leaving behind a young son grappling with unanswered questions. Longman learned of his father’s death while at boarding school in England, surrounded by five other boys but utterly alone in his grief.
The Longman family’s struggle with mental health didn’t begin or end with John. James also lost his grandfather, Jimmy, to suicide, marking a generational pattern of tragedy. For Longman, these losses were not just personal but also a call to action. He embarked on a deeply personal journey to understand his father’s illness and to “find him” beyond the circumstances of his death.
“When someone ends their life, it’s the only thing someone kind of remembers and that defines them,” Longman reflects. “So much was kept from me,so much secrecy. so it’s a journey of finding him and who he was away from illness.”
To uncover the truth, Longman tracked down individuals from his father’s life, including a caretaker who lived just 20 minutes away. He also pored over 120 pages of his father’s medical records, piecing together a fuller picture of the man he barely knew. This inquiry wasn’t just about understanding his father’s schizophrenia; it was about reclaiming his father’s identity from the shadow of his illness.
Longman’s story is a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the devastating impact of untreated mental illness. It also highlights the need for open conversations about suicide, breaking the stigma that frequently enough surrounds it.
Key Takeaways from James Longman’s Story
Table of Contents
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Impact of Suicide | Suicide affects not just the individual but also their loved ones, leaving lasting emotional scars. |
| Mental Health Awareness| Understanding and addressing mental health conditions like schizophrenia is crucial to preventing tragedies. |
| Generational Trauma | Suicide and mental illness can have a ripple effect across generations, underscoring the need for early intervention. |
| The Power of Investigation | Longman’s journey to uncover his father’s story demonstrates the healing potential of seeking answers. |
Longman’s experience is a call to action for all of us. It urges us to prioritize mental health, to seek help when needed, and to foster open, compassionate conversations about suicide.If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to a mental health professional or a trusted support network.For those interested in learning more about mental health and suicide prevention, consider exploring resources like The Knowledge Academy, which offers insights into mental health education and awareness.
James Longman’s story is a testament to resilience and the enduring power of seeking understanding in the face of unimaginable loss.Let it inspire us to break the silence, to support one another, and to remember that no one is truly alone in their struggles.
The Power of Love and Care: A Story of Mental Health, Family, and resilience
mental health struggles often leave invisible scars, not just on the individual but on their loved ones as well. For ABC News journalist James Longman, his family’s history with mental illness is a poignant reminder of the importance of care, community, and understanding. Through his research and personal journey, Longman uncovered stories of love, loss, and resilience that shed light on the complexities of mental health care—both past and present.
A Father’s Silent Love
Longman’s father,john,battled severe mental illness throughout his life. Institutionalized before Longman was born, John underwent treatments like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and was prescribed antipsychotics, which he took irregularly. Despite his struggles, John’s love for his son was undeniable.
During his research, Longman discovered a touching moment that revealed his father’s deep affection. “His carer told me: ‘I took your dad to your school once as he said he wanted to be near you,’” longman shared with The I Paper. “Thinking about it now makes me cry,because I knew that I was loved,but I didn’t [know if my father wanted me].”
This revelation was a turning point for Longman. “But to know that that day,he asked her to drive him near my school,I feel so warm thinking about it. He wanted to be near me. that was the single most amazing thing that I found out.”
The Importance of Mental Health Care
Longman’s research also revealed that his father had access to comprehensive mental health care, a stark contrast to the current state of services. “Because [of] my father’s life, I had always imagined that he wasn’t cared for. And actually, what I discovered is he had a lot of care,” Longman explained. “He had a day center he could go to, a day hospital, art therapy classes.If he needed to see psychiatrists, it would happen within a week. And none of that is available now.”
This disparity highlights the urgent need for improved mental health resources. According to the World Health Association, mental health services remain underfunded and inaccessible for many, despite the growing global burden of mental illness.
A Family’s Legacy of Mental Illness
Longman’s family history is marked by a recurring struggle with mental health. His grandfather, Jimmy, died by suicide, as did his father. His Uncle Tony suffered from schizophrenia, and his mother, Ann, battles depression.This intergenerational pattern underscores the importance of early intervention and support for families affected by mental illness.
| family Member | Mental Health Struggle |
|——————–|—————————-|
| John Longman | Severe mental illness, suicide |
| Jimmy Longman | Suicide |
| Tony Longman | Schizophrenia |
| Ann Longman | Depression |
Finding Strength in Community
Longman himself has faced his own battles with depression. He credits his husband, Alex Brannan, with being his “savior.” “Community is so powerful,” Longman said. This sentiment echoes the findings of numerous studies, which show that strong social connections can considerably improve mental health outcomes.For those struggling with mental illness, building a support network is crucial. Organizations like Mental Health America offer resources and tools to help individuals and families navigate these challenges.
A call to Action
Longman’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of love, care, and community in the face of mental illness.It also serves as a call to action for better mental health services and greater awareness.
If you or someone you know is struggling,reach out to a trusted friend,family member,or mental health professional. You are not alone, and help is available.let’s work together to ensure that no one has to face mental illness without the care and support they deserve.
—
Image Credits: Daily Mail
The Inherited Mind: How Genetics and Community Shape Mental Health
Mental health is a deeply personal and frequently enough misunderstood topic, but British-born journalist Longman is shedding light on the intersection of genetics, trauma, and healing in his new book, The Inherited Mind. Released on Tuesday, the book combines memoir and research to explore how mental health struggles can be passed down through generations—and how individuals can find hope and healing despite their genetic predispositions.
The Longman Curse: A Family’s Mental Health Legacy
Longman’s journey into understanding mental health began with his family’s history of mental illness, which his mother Ann often referred to as “The Longman Curse.” This phrase encapsulates the generational struggles with conditions like schizophrenia,depression,and anxiety that have affected his family.
In an interview with The I Paper, Longman explained how this legacy pushed him to investigate the role of genetics in mental health.He spoke with geneticists, neuroscientists, and mental health experts to understand how trauma can be inherited and how it manifests across generations.
“You can’t change your genetic make-up, but you can turn up or turn down predispositions. You can inherit trauma, but you can also inherit healing,” Longman told The I Paper.
The Role of Community and Support Systems
While genetics play a significant role, Longman emphasizes the importance of community and support systems in managing mental health.he credits his husband, Alex Brannan, with being his “savior” during his darkest moments.“Community is so powerful,” Longman said. “When people have these illnesses in these families, they often get cut off. Alex to me has really just been my savior. He’s just the most beautiful human being, and if you find people in your life that can get you through, that’s what you need.”
Longman has openly shared his own struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, which resurfaced in 2022. He described his depression as a “deep sense of doom, of pointlessness.I’m emotionless.” He added, “It’s not that I get upset, it’s that I cannot find joy.”
Breaking the Stigma: A Path Forward
One of the key goals of The Inherited Mind is to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Longman hopes his book will provide hope to those who feel trapped by their genetic predispositions or societal shame.
“The point of the book is to give people hope,” Longman said. “There’s so much shame associated with these issues, and the idea is to punch through that shame and tell people there is a path forward.”
Key takeaways from The Inherited Mind
To summarize the key insights from Longman’s research and personal experiences, here’s a table highlighting the main points:
| Aspect | Key Insight |
|————————–|———————————————————————————|
| Genetics | Mental health conditions can be inherited, but predispositions can be managed. |
| Trauma | Trauma can be passed down genetically, but healing is also possible. |
| Community | Support systems are crucial for managing mental health struggles. |
| Stigma | Breaking the stigma around mental health is essential for progress. |
| Hope | There is always a path forward, even in the face of genetic challenges. |
why The Inherited Mind Matters
Longman’s work is a powerful reminder that while genetics may influence mental health, they do not define it. By combining personal anecdotes with scientific research, he offers a nuanced viewpoint on how individuals can navigate their mental health journeys.
For those interested in learning more about the science behind inherited trauma, the American Psychological Association provides valuable resources on the topic. Additionally, organizations like Mental Health America offer support and tools for those struggling with mental health issues.
Final Thoughts
The Inherited mind is more than just a book—it’s a call to action. Longman’s story reminds us that while we may not control our genetic makeup, we can control how we respond to it.By fostering supportive communities,seeking professional help,and challenging societal stigmas,we can pave the way for a healthier,more hopeful future.If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted professional or support group. Remember, as Longman says, “There is a path forward.”
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For more insights on mental health and genetics, explore Longman’s book, The inherited Mind, available now.
The Power of Love and Care: A Story of Mental Health, Family, and Resilience
Mental health struggles often leave invisible scars, not just on the individual but on their loved ones as well. For ABC News journalist james Longman, his family’s history with mental illness is a poignant reminder of the importance of care, community, and understanding. through his research and personal journey, Longman uncovered stories of love, loss, and resilience that shed light on the complexities of mental health care—both past and present.
A Father’s Silent Love
Longman’s father, John, battled severe mental illness throughout his life. Institutionalized before Longman was born, John underwent treatments like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and was prescribed antipsychotics, which he took irregularly. Despite his struggles, John’s love for his son was undeniable.
During his research,Longman discovered a touching moment that revealed his father’s deep affection. “His carer told me: ‘I took your dad to your school once as he said he wanted to be near you,’” Longman shared with The I Paper. “Thinking about it now makes me cry,because I knew that I was loved,but I didn’t [know if my father wanted me].”
This revelation was a turning point for Longman. “But to know that that day, he asked her to drive him near my school, I feel so warm thinking about it. He wanted to be near me. That was the single most amazing thing that I found out.”
The Importance of Mental Health Care
Longman’s research also revealed that his father had access to comprehensive mental health care, a stark contrast to the current state of services. “As [of] my father’s life, I had always imagined that he wasn’t cared for. And actually, what I discovered is he had a lot of care,” Longman explained. “He had a day center he could go to,a day hospital,art therapy classes.If he needed to see psychiatrists, it would happen within a week. And none of that is available now.”
This disparity highlights the urgent need for improved mental health resources. According to the World Health Organization, mental health services remain underfunded and inaccessible for many, despite the growing global burden of mental illness.
A Family’s legacy of Mental Illness
Longman’s family history is marked by a recurring struggle with mental health. His grandfather, Jimmy, died by suicide, as did his father.His Uncle Tony suffered from schizophrenia, and his mother, Ann, battles depression. This intergenerational pattern underscores the importance of early intervention and support for families affected by mental illness.
| Family Member | Mental health Struggle |
|——————–|—————————-|
| John Longman | Severe mental illness, suicide |
| Jimmy Longman | Suicide |
| Tony Longman | Schizophrenia |
| Ann longman | Depression |
Finding Strength in Community
Longman himself has faced his own battles with depression. He credits his husband, Alex Brannan, with being his “savior.” “Community is so powerful,” Longman said. This sentiment echoes the findings of numerous studies, which show that strong social connections can considerably improve mental health outcomes. For those struggling with mental illness, building a support network is crucial. Organizations like Mental Health America offer resources and tools to help individuals and families navigate these challenges.
A Call to Action
Longman’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of love, care, and community in the face of mental illness. It also serves as a call to action for better mental health services and greater awareness.
if you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. You are not alone, and help is available. Let’s work together to ensure that no one has to face mental illness without the care and support they deserve.
Image Credits: Daily Mail
The Inherited Mind: How Genetics and Community Shape Mental Health
Mental health is a deeply personal and frequently misunderstood topic,but British-born journalist James Longman is shedding light on the intersection of genetics,trauma,and healing in his new book,The Inherited Mind. Released on Tuesday, the book combines memoir and research to explore how mental health struggles can be passed down through generations—and how individuals can find hope and healing despite their genetic predispositions.
The Longman Curse: A Family’s Mental Health Legacy
Longman’s journey into understanding mental health began with his family’s history of mental illness, which his mother Ann frequently enough referred to as “The Longman Curse.” This phrase encapsulates the generational struggles with conditions like schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety that have affected his family.
In an interview with The I Paper, Longman explained how this legacy pushed him to investigate the role of genetics in mental health.He spoke with geneticists, neuroscientists, and mental health experts to understand how trauma can be inherited and how it manifests across generations.
“You can’t change your genetic make-up, but you can turn up or turn down predispositions. you can inherit trauma, but you can also inherit healing,” Longman told The I Paper.
The Role of Community and Support Systems
While genetics play a significant role, Longman emphasizes the importance of community and support systems in managing mental health. He credits his husband, Alex Brannan, with being his “savior” during his darkest moments. “Community is so powerful,” Longman said. “When people have these illnesses in these families, they often get cut off.Alex to me has really just been my savior. He’s just the most beautiful human being, and if you find people in your life that can get you through, that’s what you need.”
Longman has openly shared his own struggles with depression and anxiety, using his platform to advocate for greater awareness and understanding of mental health issues.His story is a testament to the power of love, care, and community in overcoming the challenges posed by mental illness.
For those interested in learning more about mental health and suicide prevention, consider exploring resources like The Knowledge Academy, which offers insights into mental health education and awareness.
