9|9|2024Greetings, Gem. I pray you’re well. This topic may feel heavy for some; please give yourself the grace needed while reading. ♡
You Are Not Alone x Shanice
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During Suicide Prevention Month, it’s more important than ever to talk openly about something that affects far too many lives but often remains hidden in the shadows: mental health struggles and the pain that can lead someone to consider ending their life. Gem, as I stated above, this topic may feel heavy, but it's one that needs to be spoken about with empathy, understanding, and, most importantly, hope.
I’m here to do that.
If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed, please know this: you are not alone. There is help, there is hope, and there are people who care deeply about you—even if it doesn't feel that way right now.
For too long, conversations around mental health and suicide have been met with stigma and silence. This silence only makes things worse, isolating those who are struggling and making them feel as though they are battling their demons alone. But here’s the truth: we all have mental health, just like we have physical health. And sometimes, just like our bodies, our minds need care, attention, and support.
Talking about suicide doesn’t make someone more likely to consider it—in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Speaking up, asking questions, and showing genuine care can create a lifeline for someone in distress. You never know what someone is going through or how much your words, kindness, or presence might mean to them. Sometimes, reaching out to a friend, family member, or even a stranger can change or save a life.
It’s crucial to recognize that everyone’s journey is different, and the signs that someone might struggle can vary.
Here are some signs that might indicate someone is in distress:
Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
Expressing feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or being a burden
Changes in sleeping or eating habits
Talking about death, dying, or wanting to end their life
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Giving away prized possessions or saying goodbye in a way that feels final
If you notice these signs in someone you care about—or even yourself—take them seriously. Reach out, ask how they’re doing, and listen without judgment.
If you’re worried about someone, remember that you don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is showing up and letting them know they matter.
Based on the research I’ve gathered, here are some effective ways to help:
Ask Openly and Compassionately: "I've noticed you've been going through a tough time lately. Are you okay? Do you want to talk about it?" It might feel uncomfortable at first, but asking directly can open the door to an honest conversation.
Listen Without Judgment: Sometimes, what someone needs most is just to be heard. Let them speak without interrupting or offering immediate solutions. Your understanding and empathy can mean the world. And as someone who has experienced many low mental health seasons, it was more impactful when my friends just sat with me, even during times silence seemed crippling.
Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help: There’s no shame in asking for help from a therapist, counselor, or support group. Encourage them to reach out to trained professionals to help them navigate their feelings.
Stay Connected: Check in regularly, offer support, and make sure they know you’re there for them. Whether it’s a text, a call, or a coffee date, staying connected can help them feel less isolated.
Gem, if you’re reading this and feeling like the weight of the world is too much to bear, please know that there are people who want to help you. Your feelings are valid, your pain is real, but your life is incredibly precious. Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of courage.
Here are some resources where you can find immediate help:
In the United States:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (Call or text 988)
Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678
In Canada:
Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
In the UK:
Samaritans: 116 123
Shout Crisis Text Line: Text SHOUT to 85258
In Australia:
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
These are just a few of the many lifelines available worldwide. Wherever you are, there is support nearby.
Suicide prevention is not just about hotlines and professional help; it's also about building a culture of compassion, empathy, and understanding — showing up for one another, being kind, and reminding each other that it's okay not to be okay. We can all play a role in creating a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
If no one has told you today, let this be your reminder: You are loved, you are needed, and you are enough. Cliché aside, the world is a better place with you in it. I’m serious, Gem. Let me repeat it for you: you are loved, you are needed, and you are enough.
This Suicide Prevention Month, let’s commit to being there for one another, speaking up when we see someone in pain, and spreading the message that no one has to face their darkest moments alone. We are all in this together, and together, we can make a difference.
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Gem, send this to your group chats & share it on your socials to keep your peers aware. You never know who may need it.
Sending you love as you keep the conversation going and make a difference. -S
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