Family and friends

In obituaries, the phrase, “ ... died surrounded by family and friends,” is not uncommon. This brings to mind a bedside scene, and a soul quietly passing from this life to the next.

During a conversation with a friend about depression and mental health, it dawned upon me that suicide is another side of this phrase. That some people die at their own hand while “surrounded by family and friends.” Nearby, but perhaps completely unaware.

I write this post as a reminder to others and to myself. People we know are suffering. People we know feel isolated. People we know may need professional help.

And while there’s little hesitation to speak about broken bones and physical ailments, there’s an unfortunate stigma applied to mental health; it’s not something we talk about.

We’re much more likely to hear about someone’s stylist or personal trainer. Much less likely to hear about their therapist or psychologist ... or their interest in finding one.

But we can choose to change this. We can be more open about conversations surrounding mental health and the importance of asking for help when help is needed.

It’s up to us, because this won’t change on its own.