The wrestling world lost yet another alum when former WWE star Ashley Massaro died last week at the age of 39.  The circumstances behind her death were not publicly revealed at the time, but the fact that the police immediately labeled it, "non-criminal" spoke volumes.  Now it's being reported that Massaro died from suicide by hanging. Our thoughts go out to her family and friends.

Massaro had a rocky relationship with her former employer.  She was part of a class action concussion-related lawsuit against the WWE, saying that she suffered from depression as a result of the repeated blows she took in the ring.  That lawsuit was later thrown out, but Massaro wanted to donate her brain for further research after her death.  It will not be a surprise in the slightest if she is found to have suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), the brain trauma which has plagued so many former NFL players, boxers, and others involved in contact sports. 

However, the point here is not to debate what drove Massaro to take this step.  Rather, we hope her story will serve as a reminder to wrestling fans around the country to please seek help if you are battling depression.  (Also, if you know someone in trouble, reach out to them.)  There is no reason for you to suffer in silence, no matter how much your brain may tell you otherwise.  Speak to someone, whether it's a relative, friend, or trained medical professional, and tell them your situation.  Let them help you try to find your way out of the darkness.  You can always start with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255).  You are not alone.

Gone far too soon.  (pic via fox8.com)