The scene takes place Sunday evening live, on TF1, during the television news, on the occasion of the coming of Stromae. Anne-Claire Coudray, the presenter, asks a question regarding the discomfort that haunted the Belgian singer for several years. The author of Papaoutai responds by singing his new title: Hell. Viewers thought they were going to an interview, they are going to be hypnotized by performance.
Live, in front of 7.3 million people, Stromae expresses himself candidly on the taboo subject of suicide. ” I sometimes had suicidal thoughts. And I am not proud of it. It is sometimes believed that this is the only way to silence them. These thoughts that make us go through hell He sings. The words are powerful, the interpretation grandiose, worthy of Jacques Brel.
“Free speech”
This new title will be of service to society. ” I am convinced this will have an impact, emphasizes Pierre Grandgenèvre, psychiatrist at Lille University Hospital specializing in suicidology. This type of message carried by a star will allow people to speak freely. “Breaking the silence when you have suicidal thoughts is the most difficult” because there are value judgments ».
“This type of message carried by a star will allow people to speak freely. “
This first step is nevertheless saving. ” We have plenty of tools to reduce this suffering but for that we have to succeed in talking regarding it, continues the doctor, also assistant in charge of health in Bailleul. Putting words can also break up certain things. »
Hell might have the same impact as 1-800-273-8255. This title by American hip-hop artist Logic is regarding a person contacting the American suicide prevention number. After a study, the song is associated with a higher number of calls and a decrease in acting out.
In addition to freeing up the floor, the 36-year-old singer ” has very correct words on a very complex subject », Emphasizes Pierre Grandgenèvre. Stromae describes the invasive dimension suicidal thoughts. « The suffering is so intense that it occupies all our thoughts, approves the psychiatrist. A bit like when we are in great physical pain and the pain prevents us from doing everything. »There is also this feeling ashamed which returns throughout the verses. ” It is very common and our patients tell us regarding it very often. Because mental illness is stigmatized. It will be a little less so thanks to Stromae’s words regarding his own ailments.
Having suicidal thoughts is not trivial, recalls the Papageno program for the fight once morest suicidal contagion. Depression, thoughts too dark, the reflex should be to call 3114, the national suicide prevention number. It is free, confidential and accessible 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, from all over the country. You can also reach your doctor, a psychologist or a psychiatrist, dial 15 or contact a helpline such as Suicide Listen (01 45 39 40 00) or SOS Friendship (09 72 39 40 50).
