Outpouring of support for paratrooper after emotional story of his suicide attempt

WARNING: Some of the details in the article and video may be upsetting or triggering. 

A warrant officer in the Parachute Regiment has posted a powerful video about his personal experience of a suicide attempt to give hope to others who he encouraged to seek help.

Lee Fox spoke openly for World Suicide Prevention Day, which is marked each year on 10 September, to raise awareness that suicide can be prevented.

His emotional account has been viewed nearly 100,000 times in 24 hours and received many messages of support.

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WO2 Fox explained that he decided to tell his story after a lot of people responded positively to his honest posts.

He said: "From the outside, a lot of people would see that I was doing alright for myself, everything's going alright, etc".

"But the reality was that it wasn't."

In the deeply emotional and moving video, he talks openly about how he attempted to end his life after leaving a job he loved and going through personal issues.

He said: "We all go through this and if you are feeling like that, please, just speak to someone.

"I have been speaking to people since. I'm very naive beforehand, thinking that I was this strong paratrooper, this person that's dealt with so much, and how could I then speak to people?"

WO2 Fox added: "It works both ways too – check in on your mates, just check in on them, make sure everyone's all right.

"It's never too late."

"There's always stuff going for you and there's always people out there that can help you and that will help you – my DMs are always wide open."

In response to WO2 Fox's video, many replied to thank him for his moving post.

His "honesty and openness" was called inspirational, offering a lifeline to many who are struggling.

Defence Minister Al Carns also reached out to the military community with a post on X for the MOD to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.

The Samaritans have help and advice specifically for the Armed Forces here.

If you or someone you know needs support at this time, find help available on our website.