You Cannot Be Replaced

Postcard from Postsecret

Today, September 8, marks the start of National Suicide Prevention Week. I understand that this topic makes some people uncomfortable, but it is something that has affected so many of us. This week is not just for those who are or have been contemplating suicide. It is also a time for all of us to become better educated, to build support networks, to reach out to the people in our lives that we love. Prevention begins with US. People who are hurting, who have lost hope, don't always reach out. And to be honest, we never know who around us is drowning. 

If you don't participate in any other way this week, I ask you to go out of your way to be kind. To your friends, to your family, to complete strangers. A smile, a word of encouragement, a card, an email, a touch, a hug... you never know when a seemingly insignificant act makes all the difference in the world. 

Lives are lost because people are afraid to speak out or don't know where to turn. They are afraid of how people will react, of the stigma it will attach to them. That's why I believe we MUST talk about suicide. No one should feel forced to hurt alone. This week, I'll be doing my small part by posting articles, resources and personal thoughts.  Please feel free to share anything that you find helpful, especially if you know someone who is hurting.  I invite you to help get the word out that NONE OF US CAN BE REPLACED.