Instead of asking, “How are you doing?” we might consider asking, “How are you feeling?” For someone battling depression, life isn’t about doing—it’s about feeling. Emotions reflect a person’s inner world, revealing the state of mind that words alone may struggle to express.
A person may feel lost, isolated, overwhelmed, or consumed by sadness. Until someone experiences profound grief, financial collapse, loneliness, bullying, or the death of a loved one, it’s hard to comprehend the depth of despair that can engulf the mind. These emotions can push individuals into a mental darkness so deep that even the smallest glimmer of hope is extinguished.
The term “mental illness” is often overlooked when we witness irrational behavior. When someone dies by suicide, it’s frequently stated without context—“they took their own life”—with little understanding of the suffering that led to such a devastating act.
Mental illness must be acknowledged openly—within families, schools, and communities. The silence surrounding it only fuels its quiet destruction, particularly for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. Today, suicide is increasingly linked to emotional pain caused by loneliness, isolation, financial hardship, and bullying.
Statistics are alarming. More than 14% of high school students have seriously considered suicide, and about 6% have attempted it. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 30, and the fourth for those aged 35 to 54.
Research published in the American Journal of Epidemiology highlights financial distress as a major contributor to suicidal thoughts and attempts. With the economic strain brought on by recent global events, this risk may only increase. While suicide and loneliness are deeply personal experiences, population data confirms a strong correlation between the two.
Creating Safe Spaces for Honest Conversations
The reasons behind suicidal thoughts and actions must be addressed openly and without judgment. It should never be shameful to seek support for mental health challenges. The stigma surrounding mental illness has silenced too many and inflicted long-lasting suffering.
Families and communities must foster safe environments where individuals can express emotional pain and access the help they need. Shame and silence have no place in these conversations.
Help Is Available
There are professionals ready to help—24 hours a day. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers free, confidential support to anyone in emotional distress. Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) to be connected with a trained counselor at a nearby crisis center.
As a society, we must continue to normalize conversations around mental health and ensure that no one feels alone in their struggle.
