Saving lives isn't usually the first thing on your mind when you wake up, unless you're a firefighter or a paramedic, or someone who saves lives for a living. But you usually don't think that you'd have to save the life of one of your friends or family members.
Keeping your eyes, ears, and heart open to the people in your life is so important. Sure, we all have things going on in our lives, but not everyone feels that they can handle it. Some people feel that they're not strong enough to go on, and they begin to feel like they're no longer needed on this planet.
That couldn't be further from the truth.
Everyone has the strength in them to make it through tough times, some people just need help to get that strength out of them. This is why it's so important that we all listen to each other and help each other out.
It's devastating how many people have felt that the only way out was to end their own life. It's devastating that these people could have been saved. It's devastating that they could still be here right now had they had gotten help.
It's a sensitive topic that a lot of people are not willing to discuss. And not necessarily everyone who is in trouble cries out for help. What's important is that we listen to the people that ask for help, and keep our eyes open for those who seem to need a friend. Sometimes all it takes is telling someone, whether you're close or not, that you're there for them. Sometimes that's all that someone needs to hear.
Being aware of how many people have committed suicide is important, and so is preventing others from feeling that suicide is the only option.
If you or someone you know seems to be in trouble or facing some hardships and you may not feel comfortable going to your family or friends, feel free to call 1-800-273-8255 at anytime. There will always be someone willing to help you. Or visit http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ for more information on ways to give or get help.