In today’s world, suicide is among the 3rd leading cause of death among those aged 15-44 years in some countries. Close to 800,000 people die to suicide every year, which is one person every 40 seconds. Evidence suggests that for every person who died by suicide, there may hav been 20 more attempts (who.int/mental_health/prevention/suicide). During this time, please take a moment to check on your friends and family. If you are personally feeling lonely and depressed, please reach out to someone. Souligna is a victim of the other side of suicide. Fifteen years ago, her father committed suicide and left her family confused and numb. She is finally talking about the effects and what it was like being on the other side of it. If you are thinking about suicide as a way out, I pray you will look at who you are leaving behind. Souligna and I have both suffered depression. For me, what’s kept me alive is the fact I could never do that to the ones I love, especially my daughter. Souligna will tell a story of an attempt she made and why she decided not to continue with it. Suicide and depression are real. Most people won’t reach out to someone and talk. For me, I chose God. Last year, as I was feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders and wondering if I should just end it all, I finally submitted my life to the Lord and began a journey with Him. I can honestly say He saved me. He made me aware of what I’d be leaving behind. Right now, many people we know are out of work and feeling pressure. It’s up to us to check on those we know and love. Let them know we are here. Let them know they are NOT alone...before it’s too late. Be blessed and thank you for listening.
