Nov 23, 2022

Suicide Prevention Week - You Don't Have To Have All The Answers

Suicide is a real subject and I want everyone to know one thing…. If you have ever considered it, you shouldn’t feel bad, wrong, or less than, and there are always people who are willing to talk with you. Data shows that roughly 5% of men and 5% of women have thought about it in their lifetime. I personally believe it’s higher, but everyone isn’t comfortable sharing something like this.

That is a significant number of the population and there is no better feeling in the world than knowing you’re not alone. Like many mental health challenges, this carries a stigma and needs to stop. Our loved ones’ lives are on the line. Whether you are a military vet, school teacher, electrician, doctor, or the like, know that your life matters and this world needs your contribution to keep making it better.

In middle school, a good friend of mine took his own life. I remember the trauma counselors coming to our school the next day and they stayed for a week. It was hard to comprehend at that age. Why did he do it? Could we have done anything to help him? Why did he always seem so happy if he was hurting on the inside? Questions we would never get answered. He was one of the most popular kids in the whole school, funny, talented, and so full of life.

If you or someone you love is having a tough time and need to find ways to cope and heal, please make sure you know about dialing 988 for support. 988 is our country's newest National Suicide Prevention Hotline. You can also find an expert, someone who is qualified to provide ongoing support locally. Whatever you do, tell someone. You might be surprised how many people care about you and won’t try to invade your space, but love and support you through it! Remember one thing, you don't have to be embarrassed or ashamed of your feelings. You aren't weak because you need help, you are strong for getting the help you need.

This is one of the many reasons our Brazen Traveler (BT) Family advocates for getting outdoors and connecting with nature. That doesn’t mean you won’t ever have challenges, but you always increase your odds of living a positive and fulfilled life when you are taking care of yourself and finding meaning in the world around you. Get out there, explore a new place, and if you are ever struggling call someone and find an advocate.

Your Friend,

The Brazen Traveler

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Resources from American Foundation For Suicide Prevention:

Emergency Resources

911

Crisis Services

24/7 Crisis Hotline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988lifeline.org
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. Veterans, press 1 when calling.

Crisis Text Line
Text TALK to 741-741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7

Veterans Crisis Line
Send a text to 838255

Vets4Warriors

SAMHSA Treatment Referral Hotline (Substance Abuse)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)

RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline
1-866-331-9474

The Trevor Project
1-866-488-7386

Also visit your: