Are You OK
Mental Health Awareness PSA — New Emergency Lifeline Number 988
I tried to commit suicide twice before the age of fifteen. Like so many other stories, my story was a common one of verbal, physical, and sexual abuse at the hands of my mentally ill stepfather. My situation felt hopeless, but I didn’t really want to die. When I swallowed a bottle of his prescription pills, it was a desperate cry for help. I wish I had a number to call and talk to someone. Now there is!
800–273-TALK (8255)
That is the number for the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Starting July 16, 2022, you can call 988 to reach their Lifeline.
You can also text 741741 to talk to someone at the Crisis Text Hotline.
You don’t have to deal with suicidal thoughts and desperate situations alone. A trained mental health counselor who cares is on the other end of that line and can get you the help you need.
You matter — your mental health matters. I was lucky to make it through two suicide attempts. I believe I survived to share a message of hope to those feeling hopeless. Never give up. The dark thoughts will pass. If they don’t, get the help you need so you can enjoy this one tragically beautiful life. There is so much life to live, poetry to read, art to see, music to listen to, and love to share. Like Tovah Shafran says in the story below, the arts have been my lifeline. Writing is one of the best outlets to process my emotions. When my mind is racing, and the words are stuck, something as simple as a walk helps put me in a better frame of mind.
Focusing on the light through faith and spirituality, doing the things I love, lots of personal development, helping others, and sharing messages of hope helped me heal. A healthy mind is what I wish for you, me, our loved ones, and the world.
Survival mode is real, but we still have to process the trauma once we get out of the dangerous situation. That is where the arts and mental health professionals can help.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800–273-TALK (8255) any time, day or night, or chat online.
Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis by dialing 741741.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has resources to help if you need to find support for yourself or a loved one. You are not alone.
May is mental health awareness month. If you have written or found any helpful mental health articles, tips, or quotes, please share them in the comment section. I’ll go first:
“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” ~ Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
Thanks for reading and sharing. I wish you abundant health and happiness.
~ Kathy G, Writerkat.com
“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” ~ Albert Camus
