I did not realize today was World Mental Health Day. I was just checking trending topics and picked up the hashtag.
We all know someone who has an emotional or mental heath challenge. They come in all forms -- depression, addictions, obsessive-compulsive behavior, eating disorders, bipolar or manic depression and enough terms to fill in the books in libraries all over.
In fact, in any room of any place you're in at any time, there is someone who is coping with mental health issues.
What's the best cure for mental health issues? Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro or Ativan? In fact there are several dozen drugs and so many professions focused on mental health that we forget that we are the most important cure and help for people who suffer.
We have to reach out to those that we care and love and remind them that we are there for them in their darkest days. When life is at it's worst, your outstretched hands are the most soothing cure for a dark day.
Semicolons
The power of the Internet never stops to amaze me. A viral phenomenon called the Semicolon Movement has spread rapidly on the Internet. The semicolon symbolizes the overcoming of depression, addiction or suicidal thoughts. The movement was founded by Amy Bleuel in 2013, in tribute to her father, who killed himself.
The semicolon project has picked up so much steam that several people are getting tattoos of semicolons to symbolize that notion that life continues and goes on. People in the movement do not believe in "periods, full stops and ends." It's about keeping on despite the harsh realities of life. It's about being there for others who need your love, help and support.
I have known people who have seen dark days and some who never saw the light and just did the period full stop. We all have dark days and thank a good God that most of us wake up to see light. I wish I could reach out to all of them because every single one deserves a bright day.
So here's a healthy dare for all of you. The next time you meet someone who is suffering from depression or an addiction, reach out... better still put your arms around them and give them a hug, a listening ear and a soft whisper of love.
I guess you really can't say Happy World Mental Health Day! So instead honor the day by calling someone who you know needs your ear and voice.
You may be the one who stands between the semicolon and the period.
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If you -- or someone you know -- need help, please call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. If you are outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention for a database of international resources.