On Depression & Suicide

This is going to be an upsetting topic for many people, especially while emotions are still raw from the suicide cases that have been reported in the media in escalating numbers over the years.

There is weight in every word, written or spoken. It shapes our thinking and influences them. The more influence a person carries, the heavier the responsibility they bear in shaping the minds of others. Whether or not you are in the education industry, you are a teacher or mentor to someone, like it or not. You matter.

In my opinion, depression is a very real and very human emotion in a subset of sadness and affects every individual at some point or another. Because of all the attention depression and suicide has been receiving in the media lately, people either think it will not happen to them or they view it as some sort of medical condition that some unlucky few go through.

The moment you feel like you are alone in this world with your problems, reach out and talk to someone. Please. Harness all the negative emotions as fuel to fight for a good cause and help someone in a similar situation. Understand that every person will go through low points in their life. It is a matter of making the decision to look beyond your bubble and carrying on. Sing or dance your heart out, hang out with good influences, make art, serve others. Keep persevering.

Related link: 5 bible characters who struggled with depression

The article above has been a God-send and I would recommend it to anyone who feels that he/she is depressed and alone in their sorrows. We may not see the kindness that we receive on a daily basis, but if we look hard enough, we will find some goodness in the mundane activities and people around us. Remembering to be thankful for the little things and forgiving the past can heal wounded hearts. Continue to fight the good fight, fellow humans!