The Balanced Life, Huntsville Alabama

The expression of praise as thanksgiving, gratitude, and joy is among the most powerful forms of affirmation.

--Catherine Ponder

I’ll admit that I never want time to hurry by, as it’s such a limited and precious commodity, but I don’t feel super bummed when February is finally over.

Today’s blog speaks to any person who has contemplated or is contemplating suicide, to loved ones who have lost a loved one to suicide, and those who want to know what they can do to help. 

Depression is one of the most common mental health issues that face Americans and in fact, the Center for Disease Control says over 10% of Americans face depression at some period in their lives. 

Your Story Isn't Over Yet

Wendy Carlton, LPC

Life can be scary and unpredictable. And if an individual is faced with the challenges of depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issues, it can intensify that fear and shame. In the past couple of years that I have been working as a psychiatric screener, I have encountered several individuals reporting feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, rejection, bullying, suicide, self-injury, addiction, and abuse. While these stories are incredibly sad, they have also provided me with hope and inspiration. I no longer look at these individuals as hopeless. There’s undoubtedly hope for the individuals who are searching for help and guidance, whether it be in an emergency room, counselor’s office, or crisis online forum.