US Army Veteran and Influencer Michelle Young Dies by Suicide

Michelle Young, a 34-year-old US Army Staff Sergeant, fitness influencer, and single mother, died by suicide on Saturday, leaving behind a 12-year-old daughter named Gracie.

Described as a “beautiful soul” and an “amazing friend,” Michelle Young was also a social media influencer with over 100,000 followers on Instagram. Just days before her tragic death, she shared a heartfelt birthday message for her daughter on Instagram.

Her friend, Sarah Maine, set up a GoFundMe page to support Gracie in the wake of Michelle’s passing. In the GoFundMe post, Sarah Maine emphasized that Michelle was a soldier, a single mother, and someone who advocated for improved mental health treatment for US army veterans. Despite her public advocacy for mental health, the circumstances leading to Michelle Young’s suicide remain unclear.

In September, during Suicide Prevention Week, Michelle Young shared a post reflecting on her own experiences, revealing that her older brother had taken his own life when she was just 14 years old. Despite the challenges she faced, she encouraged those in distress to seek support.

The GoFundMe campaign has raised over $30,000, with the funds intended to directly support Michelle’s daughter, Gracie. The tragic incident highlights the complex nature of mental health struggles, even among individuals who outwardly advocate for mental health awareness and support.