112 is the average number of suicides a day. Too often the words, “I wish I would have known,” are used after a suicide or finding out that someone is struggling with mental illness or self-harm. The worst part about it is that usually no one notices the signs, until they’ve realized too late. There is no perfect solution or prevention to these things, but there are ways to help and reach out. It’s difficult to understand what people who struggle with these things are going through if you’re on the other side of it, but believe me, it’s worse for the people going through it. We need your help, and the world needs to stop wishing and start doing.

One important step in preventing suicide is recognizing the signs. We all know the common ones such as someone talking about wanting to die or killing oneself, but other things include hopelessness, unbearable pain, feeling trapped, feeling like a burden, increased use of alcohol or drugs, increased anxiety or agitation, reckless behavior, too much or too little sleep, withdrawal, rage, and mood swings.

If you notice symptoms like these, or one day you happen to notice cuts along a friend or family member’s arms or body, please reach out. Find a gentle way to talk to them, to ask them what is going on. Instead of accusing them, or making them feel in trouble, ask them questions. They might not even understand their own feelings. Help them to realize that they’re hurting and in need of help. If they tell you that they’re fine, they might not be telling the truth. Don’t let it go, be gentle but persistent. Keep checking in with them and make sure they know you’re there for them. Don't say, "If you need someone, I'm here for you." Instead, just be there for them.

Once someone is ready to accept your help, be willing to help connect him or her to the help. Finding a psychologist or doctor can be hard and intimidating, so be ready to assist. At the very least, find them someone who can get them to one of those. If the issue is urgent, you can always take a trip to the hospital.

Suicide is ugly; self-harm is painful; self-hate is unhealthy; depression is dark; anxiety is scary; mental illness is like drowning. Please reach out a hand and make a difference in someone’s life. No one should have to deal with these things alone.

Too often we don’t know that someone is struggling and often we are shocked to find out that it’s the people who seemed the happiest. Be kind to ALL people and check in with your family and friends, especially if you notice different behavior. Don’t be afraid to ask weird questions or overstep boundaries a little; it’s better to prevent than to regret.

To anyone struggling with suicide or self-harm: It does get better. I know that people say that kind of thing and that it's hard to believe it, but I promise, it does. This is coming from someone who has experienced these struggles. Even if life doesn't seem worth living at the time, it is. You matter and so does your life. Don't be afraid to ask someone for help. You can do this!

If you or anyone you know may be in danger or in need of help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.TALK (8255). For more information visit sprc.org.