Michael Muhney, who captivated fans as integral The Young and the Restless character Adam Newman from 2009 to 2014, shared a deeply personal message on social media. The star admits that he has contemplated suicide several times in the past few years.
His post begins with the reveal that his wife's mother took her own life 14 years ago after having had tragic circumstances thrust upon her, and he began feeling the same way following his abrupt departure from Y&R in 2014.
"Over the past five years, during several of my many bike rides around Los Angeles, with inescapable pain and frustration and tears in my eyes, my mind would wander, I'd think about my life insurance policy for my wife and kids," he tweeted. "I'd imagine drifting across that double-yellow line into oncoming traffic and ending it all. All over a grotesque internet rumor and lie. I saw the devastation and loss my wife felt from her mother's decision, and yet I found myself wanting peace, and considered the darkest options."
Thankfully, as Muhney shares, he chose to talk with somebody about his pain and depression, and he notes that seeking help -- as well as the support and love he received from his mom and wife -- helped him get through the challenging times.
"It has taken me years to publicly admit this. I've been afraid to share. Ashamed. Embarrassed," he concluded. "But on this day I want to share this story in hopes that if you're depressed, if you're in the dark place, talk to somebody. Get help."
This is my true story.#MentalHealthAwareness pic.twitter.com/rNsAUDt9LK
— Michael Muhney (@michaelmuhney) June 7, 2019
Muhney played Adam to great acclaim during his five years on the show, earning a loyal fan base as well as a Daytime Emmy nomination in the Lead Actor category in 2013. His credits since exiting Y&R include the TV movie Correcting Christmas, the films The Track and Search Engines, and an appearance on The Good Doctor.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
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