YouTube star Logan Paul is back on YouTube after the entire suicide forest issue. The 22-year-old vlogger returns online to spread awareness on the stigma of suicide to make amends for his recent mistakes.
After taking a short break to reflect on things, Paul comes back to YouTube with his Suicide Awareness video, titled "Suicide: Be Here Tomorrow." In the 7-minute long video, Paul talks to suicide awareness advocates and to a suicide survivor. "I aim to further understand the complexity surrounding suicide. And I know I've made mistakes, I know I've let people down. But what happens when you're given an opportunity to help make a difference in the world," Paul says in the video.
Paul educated himself about suicide by talking to Bob Forrest, Founder of the Alo House Recovery Center in California and Dr. John Draper, Director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Forrest said he was surprised to find out that Paul did not know anyone who has committed suicide given that suicide is the second leading cause of death in Ohio, where Paul grew up.
Paul also sat down with Kevin Hines who tried commiting suicide by jumping off the Golden State Bridge when he was 19 years old. "In the millisecond that my hands cleared the rail, my legs flew over it... it was an instant regret. The depression was wiped from my mind and all I wanted to do was live," Hines shares to Paul.
The two hug after their conversation. Paul then pledges to donate "$1 million to various suicide prevention organizations." He will first donate $250,000 to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Paul concludes the video with, "For anyone watching, I want you to know, you are not alone and most of the time, crisis passes. So if you or anyone you know feels alone or trap, I encourage anyone to call or even text the suicide or crisis hotline." Adding, "It's time to start a new chapter in my life as I continue to educate bought myself and others on suicide. I'm humbled and thankful to say, it's just the beginning."
