There is Hope!
In a couple of days, we will officially be able to say Happy Summer! Some of you have already attended graduations, are preparing for vacations, or are just simply relaxing. For others, this is not the happiest of times. As you may know, two celebrities recently took their lives. It’s heart breaking to think that Anthony Bourdain and Kate Spade were not the only ones who decided to end their lives over the last couple of weeks. News like this catches us off guard and our hearts are saddened for their loved ones who are left behind.
I recently read an article that gave the Center for Disease Control’s report of a 25 percent increase in the American suicide rate since 1999. The CDC added that in more than half of these deaths, the individuals were not diagnosed with a mental health condition. This is heart breaking to say the least. These findings make me wonder about how many of us have someone in our lives that is suffering from depression, anxiety, and hopelessness and we don’t even know it.
I challenge us all to slow down and take the time to check on our loved ones to see how they are really doing. I admit that I am guilty of not doing this enough. It’s the small things such as listening, being there, or offering a simple word of encouragement that can really help someone who is in despair.
As we go through this journey called life, curve balls may be thrown at us and things may not turn out like we had planned. Our self-esteem may take a steep dip, we may get rejected, or have our heart broken. We may experience losses, regrets, and setbacks. Our health may decline or our brain may experience a chemical imbalance. There are a variety of reasons that lead people to depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. If you identify with these examples or any others, I want you to know that your life matters, you are loved, and you are not alone. Your life story does not have to end here because there is hope and help for you!
Below are a few resources for you or a loved one who may be in a crisis. I encourage you to get help now!
*Call 911
*National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
*Suicide.org: 1-800-784-2433 or suicide.org
If you know of any other resources, feel free to share them in the comments section below.
Peace:)