Keep Trying
September is National Suicide Awareness month. It’s a tough subject to talk about, whether you’ve known someone who has committed suicide or not. Either way, I don’t think we should shy away from talking about uncomfortable things. One of the reasons my novels have a mental health element to them is because the stigma surrounding mental health issues is so unnecessary. I personally think that being alive is kind of one big traumatic event, and I know many, if not most, people feel the same way.
I personally have not considered suicide or self-harm, but I have absolutely had unhealthy thoughts that I have actively had to choose not to listen to. Depression is something so permeating and complete in how it affects your life. It doesn’t go away, it can only be managed. During these times in my life, I have relied on music and writing to make it more bearable (before I eventually sought out a counselor and began taking literally life-changing depression medication), but other people go to different lengths to make their hurt go away.
When I started writing Water Under The Bridge, I didn’t think twice about the suicide element until long after I had published it. I realized that this is a dark story with a lot of pain, and I worried that readers might think it was too much. But the truth is that it’s NOT too much. People live that story every day, whether they’re a Sean, or a Rhys, or a Rosie. I’m proud of myself for not shying away from that very real hurt, because so much of it hits home for so many people.
My goal in writing is to make the reader feel something, good or bad. If this story gave you a glimpse into someone else’s life and changed how you thought about those affected by suicide, then I’ve done my job. If you read Water Under The Bridge and recognized yourself or one of your loved ones in those characters, please know that I included the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at the end.
Depression can be overwhelming, and it never goes away, but with the right tools it can get better. Reach out, talk about it, and find a counselor or therapist who can guide you toward finding a healthy way to cope. Speak your truth, even if your truth feels big and unyielding. I promise there are people in your life and in your community who care about you and want you to stay. A great organization you can check out is To Write Love On Her Arms, who does amazing work in destigmatizing mental health issues.
For some of us, life feels like one long slog. I hope you know that you aren’t alone and that it’s worth seeing what’s coming around the corner. If I hadn’t gotten the help I needed, I wouldn’t have literally any of the amazing things I have in my life now. It’s worth checking out, and it’s worth sticking around.
Love,
