Cheslie Kryst, the 2019 Miss USA pageant winner and correspondent for the entertainment news show Extra, died on Sunday Morning. Her family confirmed her death in a statement.

Police confirmed Kryst jumped from a Manhattan apartment building and was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement Sunday, the nationally syndicated show Extra called her “not only a vital part of our show, she was a beloved part of our Extra family and she touched the hearts of the entire staff. Our deepest condolences to all of her family and friends of hers.”

Cheslie’s family released a statement Sunday morning:

“In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie. Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength. She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined,” Kryst’s family added. “Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney fighting for social justice, as Miss USA and as a host on Extra. But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague — we know her impact will live on.”

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

With the terrible news over the weekend hearing about Miss USA, a role model for many, and someone who seemed to have it all going on, the news about her suicide have surprised her fans. Unfortunately we never know the internal battles people are fighting.

Parenting psychologist, board-certified behavior analyst, and author, Reena B. Patel (LEP, BCBA) shared her views with LATV.

“Even though someone appears to have many friends, supports others who are suffering, or even is in a helping profession, does not mean they are invincible or does not suffer from their own mental health struggles,” says Patel (LEP, BCBA).

“It may appear on the outside that someone who has everything can not suffer internally and they are always happy. A career, strong family unit, beauty, intelligence, social life, etc. But when you are a celebrity in the limelight, CEO, Role Model- you have pressure and sometimes even unrealistic expectations to perform to perfection. However, mental health illness does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone, and it’s easy to spiral out of control if you’re not getting the help you need. Also, Not every suicide is planned. Some are impulsive.”  

Here are some things to remember when facing difficult times: 

• Emotions aren’t permanent. 
• Situations can change. 
• You can make life more meaningful
• Mistakes do not define you
• You do have support even though you might feel alone- Get help 
• Time does help lessen the pain
• The future can change
• Yes- You do Matter

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.