Suicide Prevention is VERY Personal to me.

I once told my friend that I wanted to kill myself. I didn’t know how I was going to do ‘it’, but I knew I didn’t want to live anymore. Don’t mind me, I’m just very dramatic. But I know what it feels like to think life isn’t worth it. I’ve had those nights where the pain felt too heavy, where the idea of not waking up seemed like the only way out. I’ve called a friend to say my goodbyes. I’ve been there. Your colleague, friend, sister, or leader may be struggling like I was a year ago. They probably thought life was filled with unending sorrow and disappointment. It’s our duty to make sure they don’t give in to those thoughts. But no pressure!Let’s be honest, Life can be really draining. Relationships fail, jobs are scarce, sickness plagues people; Life is never smooth, but I know one thing- bad times don’t always last. A year ago, my brother used to have these violent meltdowns, but now, he has meltdowns once or twice a week. Life is filled with many highs and lows; Each time I go through a tough time, I try to remind myself of these things. Opening up feels much better: Not many understand or can relate to what I’m going through, but I know talking about it will make me feel better. I realise that they don’t have the perfect words to zap me out of my miserable feeling, but they can comfort me in their own way. Remember that you can reach out, call, text, or message someone. Even if you don’t know what to say, just saying “I need someone right now” is enough. YOU are deeply loved.The pain doesn’t last forever: I used to think I would be hurt for the longest while, that I would be in a dark pit for the rest of my life, but life has a strange way of bringing light even when you can’t see it. The pain you feel right now won’t last for three years or won’t even matter in two months. YOU will see the light and hand of GOD soon. Finally, you’re worth staying for. My mind is very dark, and it tries to convince me otherwise, but I constantly try to remind myself how loved and needed I am in this world. There is no one like me, and I make the world better in my own special way. YOU make the world special! And if you’re one of the golden ones who haven’t felt the urge to commit suicide, try to look out for others. Sometimes the strongest smiles hide the deepest battles. A simple “How are you really?” can save a life. What I’ve found out is that people love to be heard, and they want to be seen. Please, don’t dismiss people’s feelings by saying or implying that it is nothing compared to what you’re going through; we all have different strengths and should be supported no matter what. You’re still here for a reason, and I can assure you that the best chapters of your story are still ahead. I hope you hold on!

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