This is Laura. Laura was smart and funny, with a dry sense of humor. She had a unique fashion sense. Laura's signature style was punctuated by her red pants and platform shoes.She was an up- and-coming journalist. We met in chorus, bonding over our keen ability to mockingbird sing. Laura was one of my best friends.
As what often happens after High School, friendships tend to drift apart and change.We would send weekly e-mails detailing the small bits of our new lives. We would attempt to get together over school breaks.
I hate talking about Laura using the word,"was." Laura was beautiful. Laura was smart. Laura was funny. Adding that word is infuriating. She should be married. She should have a soaring journalism career. Sadly, Laura was lost to suicide fifteen years ago.
According to the World Health Organization(WHO) there are about 800,000 deaths by suicide each year. Most people have been touched by suicide in some way. Looking at that number is shocking. Each of those numbers represents a person. Each number represents a son, a daughter, a parent, a friend, a classmate, a co-worker or even a grandparent. The highest increase in suicide rates are among men 50+.
Another statistic from the World Health Organization states that depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Even with so many people suffering with depression, there is still so much stigma attached it. It's something that people only whisper about. Often when people think about someone who is suffering from depression and mental illness they think of people in mental institutions with wild hair and a straight jacket. In actuality many people that you may not even expect struggle with depression. It might be your Pastor. It could be your grandpa. It may be your teacher. Depression transcends age, gender, race, profession and socio-economic status.
Depression is often suffered in silence. People may be too afraid to ask for help. They are worried that their boss or co-worker will think that they are "crazy." The person might want to seem as if they have everything under control. I have been there. I have been in the deep and dark pit of depression. Getting out of bed and getting ready was completely overwhelming.
If you are suffering with depression and suicidal ideation it is important to talk to someone. Don't suffer in silence. Tell your spouse or parents. Talk to a trusted friend or teacher. It takes time, but things can get better.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Laura left behind a family who loved her and many friends. I am not sure of the specific pain that Laura was suffering. Laura is missed. I will remember our walks to the local convenience store to buy snack cakes and soda. I will remember our almost endless discussions about boys, fashion, and Antonio Banderas.
If you or someone you know is suffering with depression, please get help. You can help save someone's life. You can prevent someone from being described as, "was."
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