You're Not Alone

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I had an idea for creating this blog when I recently learned in greater the detail about Joy Division's former lead singer, Ian Curtis. It pained me to discover the torment he experienced with untreated depression and debilitating seizures, which is what ultimately lead to his suicide. Despite great advances in treatment and availability of services, the stigma of mental illness is still prevalent in our culture. This stigma prevents people from reaching out to others for help and treatment in the hopes they can figure it out for themselves or not be a burden to others by asking loved ones for assistance. According to the American Association of Suicidology, more than 38,000 people commit suicide in the United States every year, and it is the 3rd leading cause of death for individuals aged 15-24. 


Sometimes we can be own worst enemies, casting heavy doubt on our self worth and esteem. That suicide seems like the most obvious answer, not at all out of selfishness, but because people truly think others would be better off without them alive. That the pain can be so tremendous it can seem as if there is no other solution.

http://www.suicidology.org/resources/mutlimedia-resources/suicide-warning-signs


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