As September, National Suicide Awareness Month begins, it's important to address and acknowledge the seriousness of mental disorders.

A few things to consider:

1. People who appear to be happy all of the time, might not be. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for all Americans in the United States, and the second leading cause of death for 15-24 year olds. You might never expect that someone you love could be suffering so much that they would want to end their own life. Mental disorders are very real and very different for everyone. Stereotypes lead to misconceptions. Everyone's pain is different.

2. Having an honest and open conversation with someone about suicide won't make them want to end their lives. Do the best that you can to be there for them. Listen and acknowledge the pain that they are going through without judgement. Then from there, take all necessary precautions and do what you can to make sure they get the help that they need.

3. If someone you love has committed suicide, it's important to know that it's not your fault. The warning signs aren't always clear, and sometimes people are really good at hiding their pain. Blaming yourself won't bring them back and hindsight is always 20/20.

If you, or anybody you know is suffering from a mental illness, know that there IS hope, and there's ALWAYS someone there to listen.

For more information on suicide statistics and warning signs go to afsp.org or SAVE.org.

If there's an emergency, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

This article is dedicated to the most ridiculously quirky, god-fearing, and amazing person I've ever met. I wish more than anything that you were here with me right now. Honestly, I think you figured out how to be an angel on Earth and God needed you up in heaven. Have fun designing sunsets; I love you.