September is suicide awareness month, and as most of you may already know, suicide awareness is a cause that is very close to our hearts. Not even one year ago, Lacie Helms took her own life. It was an event that shocked an entire community, and the loss was felt as a tidal wave of sadness throughout.
Lacie was an individual who would have given anything to another human, and though we will never have the chance to call her an OH Advocate, we will march forward with her in our hearts.
The Stay; campaign was born of a deep ache to know why people choose to leave. We’ve heard countless stories from those who have been impacted by suicide, and a common thread we’ve found is a question of why.
Why couldn’t they stay?
Why couldn’t I make them stay?
Only Human truly believes that by building a community of individuals focused on telling those who battle with suicidal thoughts, why they should Stay; that we can hear the cries of those who feel muted. We can be a support system to those who feel alone. We can build awareness around those who battle with a single thought—why should I Stay?
I know I speak for a large community when I say that we wish that Lacie had chosen to Stay. Her story was so far from over. So, with love in our hearts, and air in our lungs we promise you this: we will be the voices that tell you to Stay.
Unlike the other charities Only Human has supported, we’ve made it our mission to build Stay; into a cause that will bring awareness to the world so long as Only Human exists. September is suicide awareness month, but we will not stop there. Stay; will remain a part of our mission and our hearts.
We know that no matter what the struggle, suicide is a thought that enters into the minds of millions. We were born into a generation where anxiety, depression, and health issues are on a very scary incline. Without groups willing to stand and fight for the lives of those who feel like they can’t Stay; we are sure to see a rapid increase in suicide
We will encourage any and all who have been affected by suicide in some way to share their story with the world. To remain open and honest with their own struggle, and the struggle they’ve witnessed in those around them. We will be creating a safe space to talk about a topic that weighs heavy on the hearts of millions. As Only Human grows, we will be adding in resources to provide help to those struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Only Human is encouraging anyone who is willing to share their story and join in the conversation. By creating a safe space to discuss some of life’s hardest topics, we hope to create a global conversation about an issue that’s becoming an epidemic and taking the lives of humans whose stories are far from over. If you or someone you know if suffering from suicidal thoughts, please know that you are not alone and that you can reach out for a helping hand. There are resources available to you to help. Read the full post of signs of suicide and how to help, become an Only Human advocate and join our community to talk every day about our struggles and our successes.
If you choose to share your story on social media please use the hashtag #OHstay and tag @onlyhuman so we can join in the conversation.
Your fingerprints never fade from the lives that you’ve touched, and we want you to know that you’ve touched our lives and we want you to Stay.
If you or someone close to you is exhibiting these behaviors, please reach out to someone.
SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE
24/7
Call 1-800-273-8255
