Ashley Judd Honors Late Mother Naomi in Emotional Mental Health Address Almost 2 Years Following Her Passing

Ashley Judd Remembers Mother Naomi Ahead of Her Death Anniversary

Ashley Judd and Naomi Judd Getty Images) (2)

Ashley Judd is reflecting on her mother, Naomi Judd, who passed away almost two years ago due to suicide.

During an event at the White House on Tuesday, April 23, the 56-year-old actress shared her personal experience as part of the Biden Administration’s National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. Ashley revealed that her mother struggled with mental illness, and on the upcoming two-year anniversary of her passing, she emphasized how the illness deceived her mother into believing that things would never improve.

Ashley sat on stage with United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, suicide prevention activist Shelby Rowe, and musician Aloe Blacc.

Before they talked about mental health, Ashley shared a few words in memory of her mother, who she said "left country music better than she found it."

Ashley shared that her loved one spent a majority of her life battling an untreated and undiagnosed mental illness that deceived and robbed her. The impact extended to their family, leaving them feeling that she deserved more support and understanding.

Ashley Judd Remembers Mother Naomi Ahead of Her Death Anniversary 2

Ashley Judd and Naomi Judd Barry King/FilmMagic

The actress went on to share her own experiences with “childhood depression,” reflecting on how her life differed from her mother’s.

In 2006, I sought treatment for unresolved childhood grief and sexual trauma. Since then, I have been in good recovery for 18 years. I have had a different journey compared to my mother and now I share a message of hope and recovery.

On April 30, 2022, Naomi passed away from a self-inflicted gunshot at the age of 76 in her Tennessee home. Ashley and her sister, Wynonna Judd, shared the news of their mother's passing on social media. Ashley was the one who discovered her mother's body.

Ashley revealed on Good Morning America in May 2022 that her mother used a firearm as a weapon. She admitted that sharing this information made her uncomfortable, but she felt it was necessary to speak out before someone else did.

After the loss of her mother, Ashley has been transparent about how she is dealing with her grief.

Losing my mother was a devastating experience for me. It was especially difficult because it was a suicide, and I was the one who discovered her. This added a layer of trauma to my grief, making the whole situation even more overwhelming.

If you or someone you know is going through a tough time or is in crisis, please remember that there is help available. You can call, text, or chat with someone at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for support.

Editor's P/S:

Ashley Judd's heartfelt account of her mother Naomi Judd's battle with mental illness and ultimate suicide is a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of this silent epidemic. Her mother's untreated and undiagnosed illness deceived her into believing that her situation was hopeless, leading to a tragic outcome. Ashley's own experience with childhood trauma and subsequent recovery highlights the importance of early intervention and support in addressing mental health issues.

The article emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention, including increased access to mental health services, reduced stigma, and improved understanding of the warning signs. Ashley's advocacy for the Biden Administration's National Strategy for Suicide Prevention is a testament to her determination to raise awareness and prevent others from experiencing similar heartbreak. By sharing her personal story, she empowers individuals to seek help and reminds them that recovery is possible.