Angela survived a suicide attempt that hospitalized her for a month. Paul has struggled with bipolar disorder as long as he can remember. If you are hurting, if you are considering suicide, think about us.

We know what you feel. We know darkness, hopelessness, bottomless despair. Your situation is completely different from ours. And exactly like ours. We know your pain and we love you. Believe us, there is hope; there is love. There is someone who cares about you. Don’t give up. Reach out. Please. Reach out. Here are some folks who can help. Please, let them.

If you are in crisis, stop. Don’t do anything. Call these folks for help.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255

The Trevor Project for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24
1-866-488-7386

If you’re not in immediate danger, please act anyway. There are professionals who can help. There are medicines. There is therapy. Now is the time to find out what works for you.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has advice for finding professional help and support groups. They have lots of other good information as well.

The National Institute of Mental Health has great information. More than just help, if you are interested in the science or the history of mental illness, check them out.

And please, please ask for help. We love you. The world needs you. The future has a place for you.