Chester Bennington discusses his depression battle in final interview: ‘I can give up and die or I can fight’

The late Linkin Park frontman spoke candidly about his mental health struggles 
Candid: Chester Bennington discussed his mental health in his final interview
REUTERS
Jennifer Ruby21 July 2017
The Weekender

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Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington spoke candidly about his depression in the final interview before his death, saying that he had to “fight”.

The US rocker, 41, who was found dead at the Palos Verdes Estates in Los Angeles on Thursday, said that he either had to “give up and f****** die” or choose to carry on with his life.

Speaking to reporter Will Lavin, in an interview obtained by the Mirror, Bennington said that he wanted to “enjoy” being a father to his six children.

“I came to a point in my life where I was like, ‘I can either just give up and f****** die or I can f****** fight for what I want,'" he said.

“And I chose to fight for what I wanted. I wanted to have good relationships. I wanted to love the people in my life. I wanted to enjoy my job.”

He added: “I wanted to enjoy being a dad and having friends and just getting up in the morning. Because that was a struggle for me.”

Benninton, whose death is being investigated as a possible suicide, went on to say that the band’s new album and regular therapy sessions had helped him conquer his “demons.”

Bennington’s fellow bandmates Mike Shinoda and Dave ‘Phoenix’ Farrell said they had been left “heartbroken” by the news of his death.

Music world stars including Rihanna, Imagine Dragons and Stormzy have all paid tribute to the iconic frontman.

The date of Bennington’s death, July 20, marks what would have been the 53rd birthday of his close friend Chris Cornell, who died in May this year.

For confidential support on mental health call the Samaritans on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or attend a local Samaritans branch.

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