Heath Ledger is dead. The tragic story unfolded in New York yesterday. A young man, with a two year old daughter is gone. Never mind that he was a bold, talented actor. I liked him in Knight’s Tale and Brokeback. His upcoming performance this summer as the Joker promises to make us all forget Jack – not that any of the movie goers are likely to have seen the original Batman.
There will be a reckoning of the impetus for this loss. Will it be ascribed to a possible addiction to chemicals? A blistering descent into madness brought on by his seeming fascination for dark and brooding roles? Or will there be some element of primal despair surrounding the end of his relationship to the mother of his daughter?
It is a known fact that men are substantially more likely to take their own lives. There are a number of reasons for this fact, relating to everything from cultural issues (Japan) to a reduced ability to self monitor possible psychological problems, depression. Mr. Ledger’s case may be further understood if we think of his added role as a father. Divorced or separated, fathers in similar situations run a risk ten times that of men on average.
What can be learned from this tragedy is that depression, substance abuse and other stressful circumstances can have a profound and devastating effect on the male psyche. It is my personal opinion that this has compounded in recent years, with the demasculinazation of our culture.
If you know someone in similar straits, make sure to reach out to them. Take time to listen to their concerns and point them towards professional help. The stigma associated with seeking out competent (and I mean professionally trained and licensed) help has long since past.
