Depression is a scary concept that does not get talked about enough, but it's time to get talking.

This past week a group on Michigan State's campus placed 1,100 backpacks representing people who have committed suicide in the last year. Each backpack had a different story for each person, but a common trait they shared was depression. When I went and walked through, I didn't think it would hit me as hard as it did. What this display showed was that people deal with this mental illness everyday, and most the time we really have no idea someone is dealing with this issue.
 

Depression should not be swept under the rug it should be brought to everyone's attention because maybe than we would lose less people to suicide. When people commit suicide it is because they feel it is there only escape from this terrible world around us. They believe that no one understands what they are going through. This is far from the truth.

When people commit suicide, they are leaving behind so much, especially a family who loves them. After it has been done, the family members wonder what they could of done better, what they could of done to show how important you are, remind you how much you are needed in this world. You leave behind friends who feel guilty because they had no idea things were this bad to where you wanted to take your own life.

So, this is me telling anyone dealing with depression, anyone who is thinking of taking his or her own life, that you are not alone. There are people out there that have similar thoughts, the same as you, but are on a path to getting better. There are people out there that can provide help. These people want to help.

I may not have depression, but I am witnessing people I care about deal with this mental illness, and it terrifies me that I am not helping enough. This is me stretching out my hand for you to grab and feel like you have someone to lean on. This is me telling you someone cares about you who would do anything to help.

This is me telling you that you shouldn't feel scared to reach out and tell someone. You have kept it in long enough, you have battled this issue long enough on your own and its time to reach out to someone. Whether it be a friend, family member, coworker, teacher or doctor, tell them. They will understand and they will not put you down because of how you are feeling.

Finally, this is me telling you that there is no one else in this world like you and that you are unique, powerful and strong. No one can come close to replacing you. You hold a special place in someone's heart, and without you it is empty. It may be hard now, but you can't have a rainbow without a storm. Before you think about taking your own life, remember who you are leaving behind. Remember that these people care about you and would help you with whatever you need.