Sometimes there's an ugly truth that nobody likes to talk about. You'll never hear somebody proudly admit they've felt this way, or been in that situation. You'll hardly ever hear somebody reaching out to someone they love attempting to uncover this ugly truth. You never hear about depression and suicide.
The truth is the world is a scary place and sometimes people can be cruel. More often than not, people experience depression in their lifetime. The suicide rates are climbing in the United States, and it's a fact that we cannot deny.
If you are experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts there are some things that I want you to know. First of all, I want you to know that I'm sorry. I know what you're thinking, what does this stranger's apology mean to you? You don't even know me or anything I stand for. Well, let me be the first to tell you, I personally understand that life isn't fair. Life takes the most beautiful souls and finds ways to chip away at their shine. So, for that, I am sorry. I am sorry that there have been circumstances in your life that have dulled your shine and stolen your light. I am sorry that some form of darkness has gotten to you. I really am sorry that someone, or something, in this world has control over your mental health.
Second of all, I want you to know that whatever it is that you're going through, there is always a reason to fight. Think of all of the people, though your mind may tell you otherwise, who would miss you. There are 4.8 billion people on this planet, and you were put here for a reason.
More importantly I want you to think of all of the things you'll miss if you were to give up on your life.
You'll miss the opportunity to find someone on this planet that loves you unconditionally for all that you are. There is someone on this planet who loves every atom that makes up your existence. They'll love you for all of the good and all of the bad. They'll understand that you've had this darkness, and they'll do their best to help guide you back towards the light whenever the darkness starts to creep back in.
You'll miss the sound of thunder and the bright flashes of lightning during those rainstorms that make for the perfect sleeping environment.
You'll miss those random dogs that come up to you while you're walking down the street, who just want a little bit of love from a stranger with a kind heart.
You'll miss the sound of an innocent baby laughing at absolutely nothing, whether it be your child or the child of a beloved friend.
You'll miss the feel of the breeze against your face on a humid day that gives you the slightest sense of relief from the crazy weather you've been enduring all day.
You'll miss out on seeing your mother or father turn old and gray. You won't get to hear any of their stories of wisdom that they'll try to embed into your mind before it is their time to pass.
You'll miss the taste of all of those recipes and dishes that you've always wanted to try, but you've never had time for.
You'll miss the sights of all of the places you could travel. You'll miss the beauty that's hidden all over this world.
You'll miss out on the chance to see your favorite performer live, or even meet them. You'll miss out on standing in that crowd, surrounded by people who have the same love and passion for music as you do.
There are so many things in this world that make the darkness pale in comparison. There are reasons to fight for your life.
And this isn't some cute little list that will turn a light switch and magically make your issues go away. This list won't suddenly make the world a less scary place to live in. I want this list to serve as a realization that receiving proper help, and reaching out to someone, can help you in so many ways. It can allow you to live a longer and happier life, one where you can experience all of the things on this list, or on a list of your own.
You have it in you to battle whatever it is in this world that is getting you to this dark and low point. You are a fighter. You are capable.
You are you, and there's only one of you for a reason.
If you are struggling or contemplating suicide, know that there are people out there that do love and care about you.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline's number is 1 (800) 273-8255 (for the United State of America).
There's no shame in calling or reaching out for help. Once you've hit rock bottom, there's nowhere to go but up.
