National Suicide Prevention Week is one of the most important causes to raise awareness for, but also the least talked about. Every day about 117 Americans die by suicide, and for every one suicide, there are 25 attempts. Every year, the suicide rate increases. For something so prominent in American culture, it is very rare to hear any information on the subject. Why as a society are we so afraid to talk about something that affects thousands every single year? Let’s open up the conversation.
I hold this subject very dear to my heart, as I have been affected by it at such a young age. February of 2012, one of my immediate family members attempted suicide. At just 14 years old, I had to deal with knowing that this person wanted to leave me on this Earth without them. I didn’t know how to feel when I found out. I was angry, I was upset, but more importantly I was confused. I didn’t necessarily know what suicide was, and the effects it has on families. For a while, my family member was in an institution receiving help. This was very beneficial to them, and helped them recover, but I still had many questions I was too afraid to ask. Looking back, I know I could have handled the situation much better, but I also cant blame my 14-year-old self for shutting down and bottling up my emotions.
June of 2012, a boy I grew up with throughout elementary school died by suicide. He was 15. This loss devastated my community, as he was very well known and very liked. If you had a bad day, he would be the first to cheer you up with his smile and silly jokes. He taught me how to play lacrosse, and I used his goalie stick every game. When I got the phone call, I didn’t know how to react. I was angry, upset, and even more confused. I didn’t understand how someone so young could feel so terribly that they decided to take their own life and leave loved ones behind.
August of 2012, just two months after my friend, my mom walked in my room and sat on my bed in tears. If momma was crying, I knew it had to be serious. She told me that her cousin committed suicide, and was found by an employee of the hotel he was staying at. Although he was much older than I was, I remember him chasing me around my grandparent’s yard at family barbeques, and sitting on the swings yelling for him to push me. I adored him, and loved being around him. At this point, I had no tears left.
I did not write this article for sympathy. I do not need it. I want people to know how common suicide actually is, and how it effects more than you could imagine. It has torn my family apart, and has left once close extended family members, completely estranged. My best friend, who was close with the boy I grew up with, blames himself every day for not being there to stop it. Those who attempt and die by suicide have an illness, and need to receive the treatment they deserve. Although more clinics and hospitals offer programs for those in need, I hope one day every hospital will offer services for anyone to access.
There is something we can do to help, and it is a lot easier than we think. Be kind. Being kind to someone can have a large impact on their life. Saying hi to a stranger, helping someone with their groceries, or complimenting someone on their outfit, can change their whole perspective on life. It might just save their life. Hurting someone's feelings, bullying them, or making them feel worthless can have a much larger impact than intended. You never know who is hurting. There are millions of unheard battles going on every single day. During this week, I challenge all of my readers to do something kind for a stranger, and better yet— make it a part of your daily routine. The world can be a dark place, but putting a little light in it can go a long way.
If you or anyone you know is contemplating suicide, is in a dangerous situation, or is a victim, it is never too late to get help. It gets better. I promise.
Nation Suicide Prevention Hotline
Call- 1-800-273-8255
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Call- 1-800-799-7233
Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network
Call- 1-800-656-4673
Text SAFE and your current location to the number 69866
The Trevor Project (GLBT youth)
Call 866-488-7386
Call 1-800-273-8255
