To The Support System

As survivors, we have to learn to rely on others. We learn to ask for help when it is needed. We learn to express ourselves and to be accepted. This one is for the friends that helped us along the way.

The stakes are high. Some organizations report that 1 in 10 survivors will die by suicide.

...One out of Ten. That number is scarred onto my brain. What happens to those left behind? What happens to those who felt too helpless to intervene?

Frequently, a person dying by suicide inspires others to do the same. Most people blame themselves for their inability to predict such a tragic future. A precious few will find a way to create meaning from the senseless loss of life.

Being a part of a person's support system is no easy ask. There are no schools that teach how to be a good friend to those in need of support.

For those of you sitting on the sidelines, cheering us on—my words fail to capture the gratitude I feel knowing people like you exist. Thank you.

Resources:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Link: https://988lifeline.org/
Contact: Call or text 988, or chat online at the link above. It's available 24/7, free, and confidential for anyone in distress.

Veterans Crisis Line
Link: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
Contact: Call 988 and press 1, text to 838255, or chat online at the link above.
This line provides specialized, 24/7 support for veterans, service members, and their families