Gab Valenciano opens up about mental health struggles, previous suicide attempts

On World Suicide Prevention Day, Gab Valenciano spoke up about the "growing epidemic" that is suicide.

"As of today, one person dies every forty seconds by suicide. That is not a good statistic at all. I would have been part of that statistic, twice, if not for the grace of God and love for my family and friends," he freely admitted in an Instagram post.

The singer-actor talked about his past attempts to take his own life and posted photos showing cuts on his arms and a hospital tag labeling him as a "fall risk."

Gab said that his failed attempts made way for a greater calling.

"I believe that my failed attempts had a greater calling, and that calling is to reach out and help as many people as I can who are struggling with mental health issues, through empathy and compassion," he said.

He told those who are struggling that there are people willing to listen and help, and to surround themselves with the right people.

"Please everyone, there are people willing to listen and help. It doesn’t need to end this way. The only way to battle this is to fight together so fight with us," he said.

"You can do this. Stay alive, my dear friends. You are enough and you are worth it," he added.

The Philippine Suicide Hotline is 896-9191 or 0917-854- 9191.

—JCB, GMA News