Is Everything OK?

Is everything ok? How is your Friday going? Are you alright? Just got finished rewatching the blockbuster interview Oprah did with Prince Henry and Meghan Markle. Amongst all the noise this 2 hour event, there were moments of silence. There were disclaimers for those who may be triggered by the topics discussed. It never occurred to me that someone's truth would elicit a chain reaction in someone else. With everything going on in the news and social media, there was virtually no consideration of this very important aspect of her story. I've lost many classmates to suicide, and I've always lamented over their deaths. For those who have lost loved ones, I can only imagine the range of emotions that you go through. Suicide prevention focuses on connecting with others. Watching human behavior and recognizing changes in them is key to recovery. 

Crisis Resources

• If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.
• If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255)
• If you’re uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can also text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.

Many organizations have listed resources online for symptom recognition. Therapists can assist with exploring the root causes for individuals who are not coping well with life or have expressed the desire to harm themselves. During this pandemic, calls and requests have increased dramatically.  Often, people suffer in silence. Luckily and lovingly, Harry recognized the symptoms his new wife was suffering. Both made decisive actions to get the help they needed. I'm glad to see that they are using their celebrity status to address this pervasive issue. But they can't do it alone. Once the spotlight is gone, what's next? Who will step up to the plate? Actually, the key piece to the puzzle is you. Are you checking on family and friends? Is there someone who has been on your mind? Have you noticed subtle/drastic changes in those around you? Does your workplace have programs in place? Your school? Your church? Do you belong to a support circle or an accountability group? You can't save the world, but you can give someone the hope and strength to keep going. People can move forward and get through the situations that they think they can't overcome. Let's incorporate mental health awareness into our schedules. It is shocking how thin the line is between the two. While we are in quarantine, let's strive to improve the quality of our lives and the lives around us.  Let's continue to press towards the mark of the high calling and live our best life. The purple life. Please share your comments below. Thank you for your support of this blogpost and articles. Stay safe, warm and stay healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!