September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. I can not say loudly enough how important this is. The saddest thing about suicide is that one conversation at the right time with the right person can be lifesaving. NAMI (National Alliance On Mental Illness) has information here:

Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people and is often the result of mental health conditions that effect people when they are most vulnerable. Suicidal thoughts and suicide occur too frequently but should not be considered common and can indicate more serious issues. In many cases the individuals, friends and families affected by suicide are left in dark, feeling shame or stigma that prevents talking openly about issues dealing with suicide.

We are all able to be that person. To be there and speak up when something feels wrong or off. We can pull that friend or coworker aside and listen. We can give them a number to call. We do not control someone else’s actions but we can do good.

He who saves a single life saves the entire world.

– Talmud

We all have been close to the abyss. A bad breakup, a surprise job loss, friends betraying you, sitting at a light getting hit by another driver and your insurance stinks, a sudden illness and about anything going wrong at the worst possible time. And feeling like there is no way out, things are bad and getting worse and then the idea of being done with it all pops up.

A while back, I got a call from a friend one rather unmemorable May evening. She was in tears. A mutual friend committed suicide. The victim was gone but the hole they left in the hearts of family & friends lasted for a long long time.  I do not think the victim knew how much she impacted us for good and I wish she did.  Her death hurt

If you are teetering near the abyss, please call someone. 1-800-273-TALK is a starting place. There is a trained advocate on the other end who can help you walk back. People do care about you.  Please reach out.