When you share your story, you’re releasing the stigma that tells us it’s not OK to talk about suicide or mental health. You’re creating space for others to know they’re not alone and that they can share their stories, too. We can bring everything we’re feeling into the sunlight and invite those we trust to help us acknowledge it all. We can share our current fears with those who know how to help and we can be reminded that our pain is valid but not all-encompassing.

Some questions to consider as you share your story:

• How has suicide touched your life or the people you love?
• What’s one thing you wish people understood about suicide, suicide loss, or suicidal ideation?

Whether you choose to share it with just one trusted friend or all of your followers on social media using #NotBetterWithoutYou, your voice makes a difference. Your mental health journey—including where you’ve found hope and help—is a story worth telling.

We believe in the power of storytelling and are so grateful to all the people who have shared their stories with the TWLOHA community through our Blog and Podcast. Here are a few we’ve published on the topic of suicide:

Blogs

The World is Not Better Without You by TWLOHA Staff
Connection as Prevention by Becky Ebert
Five Myths About Suicide by Mel Korteweg
Portrayals of Suicide in Pop Culture by TWLOHA Staff

Podcast Episodes

Suicide Attempt: Moving Forward with Hope
Suicide Loss: Remembering How They Lived
What Not to Say or Do When Someone is Struggling with Suicide

If you’d like to submit a blog submission for consideration, you can send a draft (500 to 900 words) to [email protected].