1. One Year

So much can change in a year. I’ve struggled with mental health concerns for the majority of my life and I didn’t realize how true this statement is. When you want to commit suicide just give it a year, and you will see the difference. I’m not saying that life will be the best in 365 days, what I’m saying is that you will have a year of laughter and tears, struggles and triumphs to inspire you. A year of seasons changing and the joys that each one brings.

2. We Need You

We are all connected, no matter how you look at it. We need you here. If there is one thing I have learned about the inexplicable role of your soul and personality, it is that this world would be less without you in it. My world would be less without you in it. We need your awkward, corny jokes. We need your smile. It lights up other people’s worlds like you don’t know.

3. Other Options

Suicide is not the only option, as your thoughts may have you believe. You can talk to someone. There are resources from online support to phone support at 1-800-273-TALK to loved ones who want the best for you. Counseling is an option. Medication may be an option. Not acting on your thoughts is an option. I promise you that suicide is not the only option.

4. It Will Get Better

In time, it will get better. And I know it’s rough because you want things to be better now but just as it took you time to wind up at rock bottom, it’ll take time to get better. But there will be days along the road when you actually smile, not that forced one you’ve been hiding behind. And that moment is so freeing. The relief of beating your suicidal thoughts is incredibly more powerful than ending your life.

5. Eliminates Hope

Suicide doesn’t end the pain, it eliminates the possibility of things getting better. It’s a permanent action that affects not only you but also those who love you and care for you. Emily Dickinson writes that you can never lose hope. It’s always there burning brightly. Sometimes we can’t see it, so it’s moments like those that we need to ask for help in finding hope. Because it’s out there, I know it is.

6. Surrendering to Life

What if you were able to surrender to life, not give up your life? You only live once. You will spend forever being dead. So take your time to dance in the rain, stay up late with friends, listen to music incredibly loud, travel, do what you want to do on a holiday, not what you feel obligated to. Eat Chinese food and try some Thai. Go somewhere you’ve never been before, even if it’s only half an hour away. Go for a walk with friends during the first snow fall of the year or sit outside and watch the leaves fall. There is so much to look forward to. Please stay strong.

7. Your Pulse is Worth More

Your pulse is worth more. I promise you that. Think how amazing it is that you are alive and breathing. That your heart is working to keep you alive like it does for others. Bring someone to mind that you care about and realize that you two both have a pulse, a breath, a life that is all your own. It’s inspiring.

Please stay strong. If you are suicidal, ask for help. Suicide is not the only option to ending your pain, and finding peace is; choosing life is too. What are some other reasons to stay strong when you want to commit suicide? Does anyone have any messages of hope to offer?