I, like many other college students, are "addicted" to Starbucks. I also, like many other college students, sometimes eavesdrop on people's conversations when I'm alone. Here's a story that combines two very ordinary things: Starbucks and eavesdropping. But ultimately teaches a very important lesson.

One day, like many other days, the Starbucks line on campus was very long. I had time to kill so I didn't mind waiting, even though I was alone. I forgot my headphones, which annoyed me a little bit, but now that I look back I'm glad I did so that I could hear what was being said. Standing in line, I overheard a group of girls talking together.

They started complaining about how a friend of theirs told them about her depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. One of the girls commented, saying "We don't need to know that." Another one replied, "I know, like she needs to keep that to herself." As if that wasn't bad enough, they then proceeded to talk about how she was probably just doing it and telling them for attention.

It took everything in me not to say something to these girls. I wished I knew who their friend was. I wished I could've done something. It made me feel physically sick that this girl was being talked about like this by her own friends, all because she sought support and help for serious problems from people she's close with. This conversation really made me think.

I don't understand why suicide and mental illness are taken so lightly and is so often seen as something someone does or talks about for attention. Yes, some people fake things for attention (that's a whole other topic), but the actions of few does not mean that depression, suicidal thoughts, and other mental health issues aren't valid. This assumption is why people who need help don't speak up. This assumption is why people see suicide as the only option. This is such a huge problem today, one that needs to be fixed.

I personally know many people that are suffering from or are affected by mental illness. This isn't surprising, considering that an estimated 350 million people suffer from depression globally, meaning there's a very good chance that everyone knows at least one person suffering from or affected by it. In addition, a study revealed that approximately "one-third of young people have contemplated suicide by the age of 16." People of all ages, race, gender, and identities suffer from mental health issues.

Suicide, suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues should not be swept under the rug, brushed off, or ignored.

Be there for your friends, and even for people who aren't necessarily your friends, when they seek help or support, especially for mental health issues. Never assume it's fake or for attention. I'm not saying to try to be their therapist, I'm saying to be a shoulder to lean on or a listening ear. Point them in the direction of professional help, if they haven't already gotten it. Take these issues seriously and you may just save a life.