Depression is real and it always has been. Despite many people considering it as a taboo, in the beginning, the situation has changed drastically. Over the years, depression leading to suicides or attempts of it has increased in the US, despite so many awareness campaigns and efforts from mental health experts.
The last person who anyone would expect to be on the bad side of depression is a mental health advocate, one who helps and serves the community in dealing with their life issues, anxieties and anything that affects their mental health.
Back in the 90s, a psychotherapist Stacy Freedenthal was one who supported people during their hardships, let people get over their suicidal thoughts. She, at that time, was working at a suicide prevention hotline along with pursuing a degree in social work. No one knew that she had been struggling with her issues herself. One day, after work, she decided and attempted to take her own life.
Depression causing suicides increasing in the US
This week, Gregory Eells, who worked as the head of counseling and psychological services at the University of Pennsylvania and Jarid Wilson, a pastor, and a huge mental health advocate took their own lives.
Freedenthal, who then came up with the website speakingofsuicide.com and teaches at the University of Denver, said that nobody is immune from suicides and that includes mental health professionals.
The two suicides have shown us the reality, in terms of the work that we have done and what we need to do more. These people were the ones who would suggest people take some help from mental experts but when the situation got out of their control, they could not ask for anyone helps and that is the worst part.
Depression or any other psychiatric condition feeds lies to your brains. It basically tells you that you are not worth it, while that is not the case. There are multiple factors that lead to suicides. As a matter of fact, even famous celebrities have done the same mistakes in the past.
While mental health advocates are working towards helping others, they often forget that they need help too, and should never be ashamed to ask for it. While the government is working to prevent such saddening incidents, it must try to reduce the stress for students and teachers at the schools
