Last week was a rough one for many of us as we lost two high profile people to suicide. It opened up the floodgates to so many feelings for me. It took me back to my darkest days…When I was having suicidal thoughts. When I hated myself. When I felt like things would never get better.
But they did. They really did. I’m not saying that life suddenly became all unicorns and butterflies by any means. I still struggle – some days more than others.
But therapy saved my life. It was a safe place to work through the pain. And it gave me tools that I can use every day that I never had before: I learned to recognize and reframe negative thinking; to expand what I find meaningful; to find a way to be proud of myself every day (even if it’s for something so tiny); to celebrate my small wins; to notice the beauty in the little things, and so much more.
I want to share something important that happened 21 years ago, a moment that I will never forget. It was a few months after my mom died and I was not doing well. A friend noticed and told me she thought I should get help, that it was okay to need help. I want to pass on this gesture, and I want you all to do the same.
If you know someone who may be struggling, please reach out to them. A simple “How are you doing today?” can start such an important conversation that person would not otherwise bring up on their own. Your concern can mean more than you may think.
And if it’s you who is struggling, please believe me when I say that things really can get better. Please don’t be ashamed to get help, to find a therapist who’s a good fit for you.
If you want to learn more, visit my partner, Mental Health America’s website, where you’ll find so many resources – screenings for mental illness, information about mental health for family and friends, tools for recovery, and so much more.
Also, I’m happy to share my journey with any of you – just PM or email me if you want to talk privately. I will also be sharing more of my story here with everyone.