Yep, 2020 has been a doozy, but for us, it started before the COVID-19. The first days were tense and full of prayers. The first week was heartbreaking. The first month was incredibly challenging, like pulling someone up a mountain. For those who struggle with suicidal thoughts or love someone who does, it was hard before the coronavirus. It is why Suicide Prevention Day is important.
Suicide Prevention Day is Relevant
I want to make sure you guys know about Suicide Prevention Day because it is relevant to you. I am convinced that every one of you at some point will know someone who has suicidal ideation (i.e., thoughts), attempts suicide or dies to suicide. (These are the terms the mental health community find best to talk about suicide.)
Being aware and willing to walk alongside someone struggling with suicide is usually all we can do. But do not underestimate the power of being a safe space for someone as they fight this struggle.
I’ve chosen to be that support person before (such as at the beginning of this year). It can be so hard, even with a team. I’ve written some tips on my blog about it, but I’ve written much more about it that is raw and unseen.
But we all know that when suicide hides in the darkness, the darkness becomes suffocating death.
Let’s keep bringing it out into the light, friends.
Many of us need to connect. If you need someone to talk to, I can’t do much, but I’ll listen and connect you with support. If you’re a support person (usually without signing up to be) I know what that is like. Be strong and it’s okay to reach out. If you’re grieving, I understand. It was never supposed to be that way.
Let’s keep pushing forward to prevent suicide. Share this (or something this week about prevention) if you agree.
