Photo: Tyler Sanders/Instagram
“Tyler was an ambitious, hard-working actor who was dealing with deep and persistent depression,” expressed David. “Although actively seeking treatment, Tyler struggled to find relief and chose to experiment with drugs. Tyler fell into drug use, not as a way to have fun socially, but rather as an attempt to overcome his profound mental health struggle.”
While adding that they will use their son’s death to further “the conversation around this pervasive issue,” his wife took the opportunity to give insight into Sanders' experience with mental health and substance abuse.
“I want others to understand that we are a family much like all other families who never thought this could happen to us,” she said, expressing that her late son “had a strong support system and still could not overcome his persistent depression.”
“Perhaps because of his depression, Tyler sought out deep connections and to bring those around him joy. While Tyler quietly fought his inner battles, he was outwardly determined to make sure no one felt as he did. Tyler loved the Lord, loved people and did his best every day. It is our sincere prayer that our story might save others,” she continued.
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Before his death, Sandersshared peeksinto his teenage life off-screen, including a white water rafting trip, a day at Coachella, skydiving and his fitness journey. His last post was a set of full-body photos ofSanders in a suitcaptioned “Styling.”
source: people.com
