Hey guys,
I know I'm a bit late for those on the opposite hemisphere to mine, but I did want to draw attention to the fact that today, now-late September 10th, is National Suicide Prevention Day. This is important for all mediums, whether it be online, in a game, or in real life.
I personally struggle with many mental health problems, and know many, many people who do as well and have struggled with suicidal actions/thoughts.
There are so many obvious red flags that tend to be completely bypassed. We live in a time where self depreciation and mental health problems are seen as a fad, and if not a fad, it's assumed to be something people use to garner attention. It's viewed extremely flippantly and people don't realize that by noticing those who are struggling the most, they could be saving a life. People who have depression may seem hard to get through to sometimes, but with patience, support, and love, you may be somebody who keeps them on this planet when they have a long life ahead of them, a life where they won't feel the way they do in the time being forever, where they can recover from their problems.
It's not something that can be understood unless you are in somebody's shoes. Depression is not a simple thing, despite many misconceptions and beliefs.
If you are struggling with mental health problems, I understand it is not a war easily won. You're fighting one of the most dangerous things a person can fight - your own mind. It isolates, it fogs how you think, it ruins your life in many ways. But you will make it. You've made it this far. You have a life that is ahead of you, where you will not feel like this the entire time. You may feel lower than you ever have before, but that means you can only start to feel better. You may not see a future for yourself, but don't ruin the chance you have at having one you don't realize exists. You have opportunity in life to feel better once again. It's a slow process, it takes baby steps, but you will be okay, and millions are living proof of such. Never, ever be afraid to reach out for help, because it is impossible for anybody to fight something like this by yourself. It's a lot of trial and error, with different treatments and people. But it's not one and done, don't let it discourage you, because once you stop trying is when you start losing yourself.
For those who know somebody who is struggling with mental health problems, reach out to them. Don't try to find an explanation for it, don't try to minimize it, and, strange as it sounds, don't try to understand it. Just tell them how much you care, that you're there for them. Show them your support, help them without conditions or judgement, because it's a battle you can't fully understand. For more resources on what to do, is this link: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.or...-someone-else/
Today more than ever, we need to spread love and understanding, because what one person may see as normal and simple may be a daily battle for another.
<3