As September begins, we enter a significant time of year dedicated to suicide awareness and prevention. I lost my dad to suicide last Febuary, and finally want to come on here to share my dads story, his struggles, and ultimately his decision to take his own life. I am accompanied by my life coach, Danielle Vaughn, and my mother, Gina Oliverson, as we talk about the raw realities of suicide and its aftermath, and confront the uncomfortable truths head-on.
By sharing his story, we want to honor my dads memory by promoting mental wellness, and offer support to those who may be navigating similar journeys. We want to address the stigma around suicide and around seeking help, and really want to offer a new perspective, based on what we have experienced.
I think there is so much power in vulnerability and sharing our own experiences. It allow us to cultivate a community of support and compassion, moreover a community where no one feels alone in their struggles with mental health.