Untreated depression is the leading cause of suicide.
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among college students.
And 55% of undergraduates have had thoughts of suicide.
The truth is, it’s likely that you or someone you know has experienced depression at some point in life. And while depression can affect every bit of your being, the next truth is that is treatable and suicide can be prevented.
According to The Jed Foundation, “Most people who are suicidal desperately want to live but are unable to find another way to cope with their thoughts or feelings”. It’s important that we start talking about other ways out, and we can begin by acknowledging that pain is real to everyone. You may never really understand the thoughts or feelings of someone else and that’s okay, but you can validate that their feelings exist and are true to them.
These feelings can often be amplified and thoughts disrupted by mental illness. Yes, depression is an illness. Just as someone receives insulin for diabetes, depression can be cared for through an individual treatment plan.
The hard part is getting there. Talking about it. Allowing others to walk with you through your struggle. Asking for help or being there for someone else when they make that step.
The good news is that it does get better, and no one is ever truly alone in this fight. If you are feeling lost or confused tonight, call someone. If you feel like there is no one to call, dial one of the phone numbers listed below. And if you know someone else who may be feeling this way, invite them into the conversation. Find bravery within your kindness; all it takes is one person.
Resources for suicide prevention and where to get help:
The Jed Foundation- the nation’s leading organization working to reduce emotional distress and prevent suicide among college students
To Write Love On Her Arms- non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide.
The National Hopeline Network- 1-800-SUICIDE
Grad Student Hotline- 1-800-GRADHL
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline- 1-800-273-8255
No comments:
Post a Comment