Some of you suggested I post some of my poetry on this podcast channel from time to time. I wanted to interrupt season 2, which is all about self-love and growth with a piece that serves as a reminder of reality. It's not always linear growth, and it's not always motivated, inspired, or determined. Sometimes there are days, weeks, months even, that merely survived. These times are just as important as those of active growth, as they are often necessary reminders and motivators to recover, heal, and strive for your vision of 'better.' 

Still Here is a poem about fighting depression- a battle I have fought, and continuously fight everyday for a long time now. Some days and weeks pass where I am able to ignore the loud shrieks of depression, and some days and weeks pass where they're all I hear. I found that the only difference between making it through and giving in is whether I have support during these times. With that, I believe it’s time to start talking about what it really means, looks like, feels like. It’s not just another term thrown around when we feel down, it can be a silent torturous struggle. So hear us, ask us, understand us. It can save our lives.

24/7 Crisis Hotline: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Network www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741-741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7

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RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline: 1-866-331-9474

The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386