Suicide Prevention Day

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Today, September 10th, is Suicide Prevention Day, and it's a heartfelt reminder of how fragile life can be and the emotional struggles many people go through. This day hits home for me because I've lost several friends to suicide, which has really shaped how I view mental health and the need to reach out for help. I've also had my own tough times with suicidal thoughts and attempts, which were both scary and eye-opening.

When I was a teenager, I went through a lot emotionally but never thought about ending my life. Death seemed far away, more like something you'd read about in ghost stories than something real. But I did turn to self-harm as a misguided way to cope, craving love and attention. My mom's reaction wasn't what I needed; it left me feeling alone and misunderstood.

As time went on, my view on death changed with different life experiences. I faced some dark thoughts, especially after becoming a parent, feeling swamped by all the responsibilities. But therapy and mindfulness helped me heal and accept myself, allowing me to enjoy life's good moments and see my worth to those I love.

Thinking about my kids growing up without me kept me going during the tough times. I wanted to be there for them, giving them support and love. Missing out on big moments like weddings and grandkids was a heartbreaking thought, especially after losing my grandmother, who meant so much to me. Her legacy inspires me to be there for my family, just like she was for me.

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A picture of my beautiful Nana and me. She didn't pass away due to suicide; she passed away from dementia. She endured 3 difficult years with it.

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When things got tough, I really focused on my kids, even though I often felt like I was letting them down. I tried to be there for them and put them first, but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was failing. I regret missing out on time with my oldest son and realize now that my frustrations affected our bond. I loved him deeply, but I found it hard to give him the nurturing support he needed, much like my experience with my own mom. This realization pushes me to break the cycle and make sure my kids feel valued and loved. I'm determined to learn from my past mistakes and build a relationship with my son that's full of empathy and unconditional love.

Life's ups and downs are just part of the bigger picture. Looking at life from a broader perspective helps you appreciate the journey and find beauty after the storms. I believe in pushing through with hope, knowing that every experience shapes who I am. Despite doubting myself in the past, I've learned to embrace who I am and my unique talents, like kindness, which make my life and the lives of those around me better. This strength reminds me that every moment, even the tough ones, offers a chance to grow and connect.

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Those that Died from Suicide

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I've known a few people who died by suicide. There was a girl from another high school nearby that some of my friends knew, though I didn't know her myself.

The first person I knew who took his life was a friend of my cousin's. We met when they visited us in Florida, and I later went to visit them in Missouri. We got along great, even though it annoyed my cousin. Years later, after he got married and had kids, he had a fight with his wife and felt really alone when no one answered his calls. He ended his life that night, leaving his kids to grow up without him.

In the military, a colleague of mine also died by suicide. We toured Germany together and really bonded over the experience. Despite his cheerful attitude, I didn't know much about his personal struggles except for a divorce. His death was a shock, and I still have a photo of him from our time in Germany, reminding me of his brief presence in my life.

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The man sitting in front of me (I’m the one with my tongue sticking out in the back) is the man that took his own life, he was my friend 💔😭 It’s easy to see the sadness on his face now.

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About a month later, another friend in the military went through the devastating loss of her husband, who died by suicide. He left behind his son, as his mom had already gone off traveling. My coworker stepped up to take care of her stepson on her own.

This website shares photos and personal stories from friends and family of those lost to suicide, showing the deep impact on those left behind. Visitors can get a sense of the emotional struggles faced by survivors, who often worry their loved ones felt alone and unloved. The stories are a mix of sadness, grief, love, and memories, as families deal with guilt, confusion, and anger, while moving toward healing. The site acts as both a tribute and a mental health resource, stressing how important it is to talk openly about suicide. By sharing experiences, it builds a supportive community, reminding everyone they're not alone and that there's hope for healing and connection.