The death of Cowboys player Marshawn Kneeland by suicide is a tragedy and a reminder that mental health struggles do not discriminate.

Even for athletes or celebrities, suicide continues to claim lives, regardless of fame or success.

Mental illness doesn't spare anyone

"It doesn't matter how rich, or famous, or talented you are," said Dr. Jaya Mathew, psychologist and founder of Wellness 360 in Dallas. "Mental illness kills."

In the wake of Kneeland's death, Mathew said she hopes the heartbreaking news encourages people to have an honest conversation about suicide, which is something many still avoid.

"We avoid it like the plague," she said. "We think almost by saying the word suicide that we're going to cause harm, but we're not. We have to ask the question."

Suicide statistics

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