As we come to the end of #worldsuicidepreventionday I recall my own attempt to end my life back in 2018. The significance of this tattoo (see image above) is many layered from the vision I had of a ship lost at sea, to the realisation that the ship was anchored to learning that in order for a ship to set sail it needs both wind and waves to drive it forward. It is nearly 5 years since that dark day when I hit rock bottom and thought this earth 🌍 would be better off without me. But in the time since then I have learned so much about myself, how to set better boundaries and also who my truest of friends really are. The support I received came from the places I least expected it to.

So for anyone struggling with those dark thoughts or feelings of helplessness please please please reach out for help. Asking for help is NOT a weakness but the BRAVEST thing you can do.

To those with loved ones who are no longer with us please know that it is NOT YOUR FAULT!! As a survivor I can tell you at the point when I was taking that step there was nothing that would have reached me. I feel your pain and I empathise with the questions you are asking yourselves and this is normal. I just want you to know from a survivor that it really isn’t your fault and to treat yourselves with kindness as you journey on your own path of healing and grief.

To everyone reading this check in on your friends and loved ones, especially the ones who you think are the strongest. And don’t just accept the flippant “I’m fine” response. Please push back. Show those you care about that they can be vulnerable with you, be a safe space for people to share. It will make a world of difference I promise

#suicideattemptsurvivor #suicideawareness #mentalhealth #selfcare #help #safespace