YANA

Every time there’s a celebrity suicide, social media focuses on mental health for a few days. I wish it were longer. 

There still seems to be a stigma surrounding mental health issues. I thought things would change with Robin Williams death, but they didn’t. Each death comes as a new shock, a new surprise. It shouldn’t.

I know many people who see mental health as synonymous with spiritual health. I should clarify: I get the feeling that most of them feel that way, but there are definitely some that “get it” – as the saying goes.

I’m in a much better place now than I was twenty years ago – even thirteen years ago. I try to reach out where I can. One of the greatest and most humbling things ever said to me was “If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be here.”

Sometimes I don’t think I speak loud enough. Yesterday I woke up and, for whatever reason, wanted to tweet this:

For some people, Camus’ question “Should I kill myself or have a cup of coffee” isn’t rhetorical, and neither are the choices mutually exclusive.  

But that put me at 119 characters and I was afraid it was a bit too dark. I forgot that I could make a thread and explain myself. Then came the news about Chester Bennington. I didn’t know him personally or follow his career, nor am I familiar with any of his music. But it still felt like a gut punch.

I’m not quite sure where I’m going with this, or even where I intended to go with this.

I guess I just wanted to let you know that, if you’re struggling, you aren’t alone.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-237-8255