NBA Player Ryan Anderson Speaks Out About Dealing With Suicide Of Girlfriend, 'Bachelor' and 'Bachelor Pad' star Gia Allemand

New Orleans Pelicans power forward Ryan Anderson has revealed how he's tried to cope with the heartbreak and sadness of his girlfriend, Bachelor and Bachelor Pad star Gia Allemand, committing suicide. The NBA star has set up a charity in her honor and is urging people to talk about any problems they may be having. 

In a heartbreaking piece by Sports Illustrated, Anderson opened up about the events that led up to Allemand's suicide, how much their relationship meant to him, the support he received from Gia's family and his teammates, and how he's now trying to honor her memory by working with at risk young people. 

The article explains that Gia was "diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)", which caused immense mood swings, but that according to the mother of the former Bachelor contestant (who made the final three in 2009) and Bachelor Pad star, she had never been "so happy in a relationship". 

Since Allemand's death, Anderson has participated in suicide awareness walks, appeared in a video for suicide prevention group To Write Love On Her Arms and will be setting up the Gia Allemand Foundation (with the help of Allemand's mother), which Sports Illustrated say will look to help "young women who endured bullying, who have body-image issues and low self-esteem, who feel lost", people in a similar at-risk place as Allemand was. 

Anderson's social media streams have also become a place where Anderson pays touching tribute to Allemand, posting photos and messages of strength consistently while also providing updates on his progress coming back from an injury that occured last season and could've ended his career. So far this season Anderson is proving his immense value to the Pelicans. averaging 16.3 points and 5.9 rebounds per game.  

I miss you everyday Gia. I can't believe it has been a year since you've been gone. It still feels surreal. I didn't know how I could get through this, and in a lot of ways, I still don't, but I have learned that I am not leaving you behind in my memories. You are, and will always be, a part of every step of my life. You're my angel, and I will always love you more then words can express. #Romans8:38-39

A photo posted by Ryan Anderson (@rjanderson33) on Aug 8, 2014 at 11:10am PDT

Getting ready for the New Orleans Suicide Prevention Walk

— Ryan Anderson (@ryananderson33) September 13, 2014

#tbt It's been a tough week and it's still heartbreaking to look at pictures of us so happy together, but this is a great memory. It's the first time I ever put on a Hornets jersey and Gia was right by my side at the press conference and photo shoot. I miss her so much!

A photo posted by Ryan Anderson (@rjanderson33) on Aug 8, 2014 at 11:43am PDT

Remember, if you feel you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. It is a free, 24-hour hotline, at 1.800.273.TALK (8255). If you are in an emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.