September is National Suicide Prevention Month – this is a time to remember the loved ones lost to suicide, encouraging the millions more who have experienced suicidal thoughts, and the many individuals, families and communities that have been impacted by suicide. Let’s raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope and healing.
There are common myths and misconceptions about suicide, such as the belief that talking about suicide might encourage it or that people who talk about suicide are just seeking attention. That can’t be further from the truth. Talking about it can be an avenue and conduit into finding ways to cope with suicidal thoughts and feelings.
Suicidal thoughts are troubling to say the least. There is a difference in suicidal thoughts, intentions, and actions. Thoughts of dying can be the result of being exhausted mentally and wanting to be out of pain and turmoil. So, thoughts of ending your life maybe confused by just wanting the pain to end. Suicide ideation is being focused and fantasizing on ways you would end your life. And then there is the action of carrying out what began as a thought or impulse. When I was at my lowest, I was looking for anything that would take the pain away. I thought I had tried everything yet still felt like dying was the only solution. I went down a road that led me to more grief and pain. The thought of leaving my family behind, especially my girls is the only thing that kept me going. Looking back, if I had gone through with it, I would never have known my grandchildren. I am so lucky and blessed to be where I am now. I still have moments when I think about dying, but it is not as intense or as often. I now have hope and you can too. What a remarkable thing it is to overcome such dark places. Being in this frame of mind is dangerous and lonely. You have got to try little by little reaching out until you find the solution that is best for you. It is difficult and takes courage to reach out but it can and will save your life. Engaging in mindfulness, cognitive based therapy, or talking to someone like a friend or mental health professional will help- don’t give up. You can find a way out of this darkness. Keep going. There is relief. There is help.
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