We Need You Here, Please Stay

My heart has been heavy since learning about Kate Spade’s passing this afternoon. I hate suicide. I’m painfully aware of just how much hearing the word sends me into an incredibly dark place. That place makes people uncomfortable. It’s a place no one wants to talk about, but we must talk about it. If we want the stigma surrounding mental health, mental illness and yes, even suicide, to be broken, we cannot stay silent.

While every suicide is heartbreaking, when a public figure dies by suicide, some are tempted to entertain thoughts of celebrities “having everything.” The loss of Kate Spade only further drives home the point that mental health issues do not discriminate. No one is exempt from the monsters longing to convince you that you are alone, you are a burden and you are unlovable.

There is enormous power in community and equal power in words. I believe fireworks happen when community and words collide. If you are struggling, I promise there are people out there who yearn for you to stay. They desire to wrap you up with words letting you know you are never alone, you are needed and not a burden, and you are loved more than you could ever comprehend. Be open with someone you love. Fight for yourself just like you fight for others. Let others fight for you.

If I am writing to you, I want you to know these thoughts are not your fault. I can’t tell you how sorry I am that you have to endure them. I understand what it’s like to be pinned against them, feeling hopeless, like you’ll never win. I have no idea when things will get better, but I fully trust that they will. Until they do, cling to hope with me, that way neither of us will be in this fight alone.

You are seen.

You are known.

You are loved.

Please stay.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline:
1-800-273-TALK (8255)

We want to hear your story. Become a Mighty contributor here.