Well then, hello. It's been a while. It will continue to "be a while"
I'd just like to raise some awareness, if I may.

Last Friday the Thirteenth was To Write Love on her Arms day. To Write Love on her Arms (TWLOHA) is an organization that supports those who are affected by suicide, depression, self injury, etc. Being somebody who has been closely touched by these issues, I jumped on board and did my community service. It's a difficult subject, but it must be brought to light.

Here are some statistics, taken from [link]

Suicide prevention (SUPRE)

* Every year, almost one million people die from suicide, or one death every 40 seconds.
* In the last 45 years suicide rates have increased by 60% worldwide. Suicide is among the three leading causes of death among those aged 15-44 years in some countries, and the second leading cause of death in the 10-24 years age group; these figures do not include suicide attempts which are up to 20 times more frequent than completed suicide.
* Although traditionally suicide rates have been highest among the male elderly, rates among young people have been increasing to such an extent that they are now the group at highest risk in a third of countries, both developed and developing.
* Mental disorders (particularly depression and alcohol use disorders) are a major risk factor for suicide in Europe and North America; however, in Asian countries impulsiveness plays an important role.


There really isn't an avenue of discussion for suicide - people don't know how to react. They immediately start placing blame, whether on themselves or on others, for they are lost as to what to do. Many simply forget as a defense mechanism. Suicide, the pain associated with it, is unfathomable to many people. They choose to ignore it. This needs to change. Suicide and depression must become topics openly discussed, so those who are victims can get help, can recover. Depression is treatable. Recovery is possible.

Please spread the word. Have a serious conversation with somebody about suicide, depression, and self-injury. Visit the TWLOHA website (twloha.com), buy a t-shirt. Donate to local charities that help the sufferers. But most importantly, talk. Talk to many. The conversation is the thing. It needs to happen.

It is ignorance that truly causes many suicides. Ignorance of the issue, ignorance of the individuals. Every individual has a story that aches to be told. Help create the avenue on with the words can come to light.

Perhaps someone close to you needs help. Perhaps someday you will save someone's life.

Spread the word, spread the love and hope.

~FT