Not Me…
I grew up in middle class America, had lots of friends, was active in school, had a great family and lots of love and support. I went to college, got married and had three beautiful children. The only blip in my life was when my parents’ divorced when I was in college. Boring, right? Let’s just say I was not prepared to experience the horrible drama we see in media to touch my own life-but it did.
Professionally, I am a mental health counselor; I hear about tragic situations on a daily basis, but when my own son attempted suicide (and thankfully survived!), all my professional training evaporated. I was in pure MOM mode. Since that terrible day over 5 years ago, I have been trying to spread awareness about suicide prevention. To that end I wrote a book, including my own personal experience as well as professional support, a couple years ago and this Friday, June 9th, will be a re-launch of the book (new information, updates and professionally edited). After the first edition of the book, I received a lot of feedback about how it helped others through challenging times.
No one wants to talk about suicide. Most people do know someone who has attempted or completed suicide. My plea to you is to not be afraid to discuss this topic. When people who are suicidal bring up being depressed, sad, wanting to escape the pain of life, they are often reaching out for a life-line. They are asking for help. On the other side, if you know someone who has lost a love one to suicide, be there for them however they need you-often it is just to sit with them! And please read my book and offer it to others who can use the support! It offers warning signs, what to expect in treatment, what family members experience and resources.
On Friday morning I will post the link to my book My Journey to Hell, A Story of Love, Loss & Hope which will be available on Amazon in print and on Kindle.
Let’s all break the stigma and reach out and help those struggling!
May your journey in life find you on a path to help those in need!