I found this Ted Talk to give some really important insight on the issue of suicide.

“It’s not just the talking you do but the listening. Listen to understand. By just being there you may just be the turning that they need.”

Understanding how to work with someone in you life who is struggling with suicidal thoughts could be the difference in how you respond. It could make the difference in whether they survive or become victim to suicide.

In life, we go through seemingly endless challenges. And they aren’t evenly spaced. When life becomes overwhelming, how many of us actually have the support system that we need? Not many, because we’ve replaced human connection with digital. And, because life is busy, complicated and stressful at times. It’s hard just to live.

When someone thinks of suicide, they could be experiencing an imbalance of chemicals in their body. Even just getting outside and getting Vitamin D can actually physically boost the positive chemicals. This is biology. Yet, the other side, the support side, helps men and women understand that they’re not alone in their challenges. And, they can map out a plan for change. It’s a way to see things from a different perspective. Suicide is a painful experience to go through on the end of the loved ones left behind. With more understanding, education, patience and kindness, we can shed light on the darkness that so many people feel in their lives, leading to suicide.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-8255