Erin Jayne Plummer was a popular Australian TV presenter who hosted advertorials on Studio 10, a morning show on Channel 10. She was also a spokesperson for Aerobics Oz Style and appeared in several commercials and shows for MTV, Guest TV, TVSN, and Channel 10 Sport. She was known for her bubbly personality, boundless energy, and effervescent smile.
However, behind her cheerful facade, Plummer was struggling with mental health issues for a long time. On May 22, 2023, she died by suicide at the age of 42, leaving behind her husband and three daughters. Her friends and family confirmed her cause of death and revealed that she had been suffering from depression and anxiety, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health
According to the Daily Mail, one of Plummer’s friends said that she had not been her “bouncy, energetic self” in recent weeks and that she hated being a burden to anyone. Another friend said that they wished they had found a way to help her through her dark times.
Plummer’s case is not an isolated one. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of many people around the world. According to the World Health Organization, the pandemic has increased the risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide among people who are facing stress, isolation, loss, fear, uncertainty, and economic hardship.
The WHO also reported that many people who need mental health services have faced disruptions or lack of access due to the pandemic. Moreover, stigma and discrimination against people with mental health conditions have worsened during the crisis.
The Need for More Awareness and Support
Plummer’s death has sparked a wave of grief and sympathy among her fans, colleagues, and friends. Many of them have paid tribute to her on social media and expressed their condolences to her family. Some of them have also shared their own experiences with mental health issues and urged others to seek help if they are feeling suicidal or depressed.
One of Plummer’s friends wrote on Facebook: “I want to share her pain. She hated nothing more than being a burden. I wish she knew it was a weight we were happy to help carry.”
Another friend wrote on Instagram: “EJ my darling friend, my heart is broken into pieces, 20 years with you in my life was not enough. I will forever miss your boundless energy, effervescent personality and the incredible light you brought into everyone’s lives.”
Plummer’s father, Peter Gard, also shared his sorrow and pride in his daughter on Facebook. He said that Plummer’s daughters are “little mini versions of her” and that he hopes they will inherit her “sparkle”.
The community has also rallied their support around Plummer’s family. A GoFundMe page has been created to raise funds for her husband and children. The page has exceeded its initial goal of $5,000 and has collected more than $27,000 as of June 1, 2023. The community has also created a meal donation program and schedule to bring dinner to the family every night until the end of July. They have also offered to help out with household chores and school and sport drop-offs.
Plummer’s death has highlighted the importance of raising awareness and providing support for people who are struggling with mental health issues. It has also reminded us that we should not judge anyone by their appearance or assume that they are happy just because they smile.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741-741. You are not alone. There is hope and help available.
