Lauren Bennett, the British singer known for her appearance on LMFAO's chart-topping hit "Party Rock Anthem" and as a member of the girl group Girls Rock Life (G.R.L.), has died at age 36.
Bennett died May 29 in England, one month before her 37th birthday, according to Kent and Medway Coroner records obtained by USA TODAY.
Her death was announced on Monday when her former group, G.R.L., in their official Instagram account.
"It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren," the post read. "We will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave us. Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved."
Although Bennett built a successful music career, she also became known for speaking openly about mental health after the death of her G.R.L. bandmate, Simone Battle, who died by suicide in 2014 at age 25.
Bennett's public advocacy reflects a psychological process known as "meaning-making," in which some people find purpose after experiencing profound loss. They also caution that helping others can complement recovery but does not replace the work of grieving or the need for emotional support.
Finding Purpose After Loss
Grief affects everyone differently, but psychologists say many people eventually seek ways to make sense of a life-changing event. That process, known as meaning-making, involves integrating a loss into one's personal story rather than trying to erase or overcome it.
According to the American Psychological Association, finding meaning after bereavement may help some people adapt to loss over time by restoring a sense of purpose and direction. The process can include honoring a loved one's memory, volunteering, supporting charitable causes, or speaking publicly about mental health.
However, meaning-making is not a required stage of grief, nor does it suggest that a tragedy happened for a reason. People cope with bereavement in different ways, and there is no universally "correct" response.
Why Advocacy Can Be Part of Healing
For some people, advocacy creates opportunities to connect with others who have experienced similar losses.
Following Battle's death, Bennett and her bandmates became advocates for greater awareness of depression and suicide prevention. Their message centered on reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help before a mental health crisis escalates.
In January 2015, G.R.L. released the tribute single "Lighthouse" in Battle's memory and began advocating for mental health awareness.
Research has shown that acts of helping others may contribute to emotional well-being by strengthening social connections and reinforcing a sense of purpose. At the same time, psychologists stress that advocacy should not be viewed as a substitute for personal healing.
The National Institute of Mental Health notes that grief can affect emotional health, sleep, concentration, and physical well-being. Some individuals benefit from counseling, peer support groups, or other mental health services as they adjust to life after a significant loss.
Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth
Mental health researchers also describe a phenomenon known as post-traumatic growth, which refers to positive psychological changes that may occur after highly stressful or traumatic experiences.
These changes can include stronger relationships, greater appreciation for life, increased resilience or a deeper commitment to helping others. However, experts caution that post-traumatic growth should not be confused with recovery from grief.
A person may continue mourning a loved one while also developing new goals or finding renewed purpose. The two experiences often coexist rather than replace one another.
Because grief does not follow a predictable timeline, psychologists discourage comparing one person's experience with another's or expecting advocacy to signal that someone has fully healed.
Mental Health Conversations Remain Essential
Public figures who speak openly about mental health can help normalize conversations about depression, anxiety, and emotional distress.
Organizations including the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention encourage families, friends, and communities to recognize warning signs, maintain open communication, and connect people with professional resources when they are struggling.
Mental health experts also encourage people grieving the loss of a loved one to allow themselves time to process emotions without feeling pressure to quickly "move on" or transform their experience into something positive.
Bennett's Legacy Extends Beyond Music
Bennett's career included international success with "Party Rock Anthem" and performances with G.R.L., but her willingness to speak publicly after Simone Battle's death became another lasting part of her legacy.
Her advocacy reflected an approach supported by many psychologists: sharing personal experiences can help reduce stigma and encourage others to seek care, even as grief remains an ongoing and deeply personal process.
While supporting others may bring purpose after loss, experts say healing also depends on acknowledging grief, seeking help when needed and recognizing that recovery looks different for everyone.
