If you’ve ever lived in a coastal state, you know the feeling that comes the day before a hurricane. There’s a sense of urgency in the air—people stocking up on essentials, waiting in line for gas, securing everything around them. You watch the sky darken, knowing a storm is coming, but not fully understanding what its impact will be.
Mental health can feel much like that. There are days when you sense something isn’t right—when you notice small shifts in your mood or behavior, or in the actions of those you care about. Sometimes the warning signs are clear, and you can prepare by reaching out for support. But other times, the storm comes suddenly, leaving you scrambling to find stability. Like sudden changes in the weather, mental health crises can appear without much notice, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unprepared. It’s not always predictable, and that’s why it’s so important to talk about.
September is Suicide Prevention Month. Like any storm, mental health struggles can touch every part of a person's life, and the impact ripples through families, friendships, and communities. Some signs may be clear, while others remain hidden until it's too late. But here’s what I want you to know: whether you're the one struggling or walking beside someone who is, you don’t have to face this storm alone.
The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health
Despite ongoing efforts to destigmatize mental health, many people still face judgment, shame, and isolation when grappling with issues like depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. We’re taught to "weather the storm" on our own, to remain strong, even when we feel like we’re drowning. But the truth is, mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness. They are not moral failings. They are human experiences that deserve care and compassion, just like any other health condition.
“Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going.” – Noam Shpancer
Breaking the stigma around mental health is critical. Conversations about suicide can be uncomfortable, but they are necessary. We need to create a culture where it's okay to talk about mental health, to ask for help, and to offer support without fear of judgment.
Know the Signs, Offer Support
One of the most powerful tools we have in suicide prevention is awareness. Recognizing the warning signs can save lives. Some common signs of distress include:
Withdrawal from loved ones and social activities.
Sudden changes in mood or behavior.
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
Talking about wanting to die or harm oneself.
Engaging in risky behavior or increased substance use.
If you've ever wondered how to help someone, don’t hesitate to ask them if they’re okay—if they’ve thought about hurting themselves. A conversation might be the first step toward finding help, and opening up these difficult discussions can sometimes break the silence that’s so hard to bear.
Suicidal thoughts aren’t truths—they’re a reflection of deep pain, hopelessness, or despair. But those feelings don’t have to be carried alone. The weight can be shared, and in sharing, hope can be found.
As someone who has worked with people navigating suicidal thoughts, I’ve seen how powerful these conversations can be. And I’ve felt the impact of suicide in my own life, as it’s touched my family in profound ways intergenerationally. But through it all, one thing stands true: community and connection are what get us through even the darkest storms.
Resources for Those in Need
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please don’t wait to reach out. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by phone, text, or chat, offering confidential support. You can also access a list of even more resources from the National Institute of Mental Health here. A trained therapist can help you navigate your way from helpless and hopeless to resourceful and hopeful. I have helped so many people find their calm in the eye of their storms and create new lives on the other side of the crisis. You and your loved ones can, too.
Final Thoughts: Together, We Weather the Storm
No matter what kind of storm you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. Just like a hurricane, life’s challenges are easier to endure when we have the support of a community. Together, we can break the silence, raise awareness, and offer a lifeline to those who need it most. One conversation, one moment of understanding, one act of kindness—it all adds up.
Comments