Living My Real Life

Warning: Sad post.  You may have noticed that there were no blog posts this week.  I have really struggled to decide whether I should write this blog post or not, but the name of my weekend round up posts is “My Real Life” and I don’t think I’m being authentic if I don’t share the events of this past week and pay tribute.

I also want you to know that I’m not writing this post to gain your sympathies, I’m writing it to raise awareness and understanding, and maybe somehow help someone who is feeling lost and hopeless.

Last Saturday my family’s lives were forever changed by the loss of a close friend to suicide. Over the past few years, we have watched this vibrant, strong woman fade away as depression and self-doubt took her. When we met Kate, I was in awe of her strength and determination, she was fearless but events in her life lead her to feel that there was no hope of help or happiness.

The saddest part is that her and her husband reached out for help but couldn’t find it.  Unfortunately, New Zealand has one of the highest youth suicide rates in the World and our mental health services are over run.

Over the years, mental health issues have affected my family in many ways.  When I was young Dad suffered from depression.  My Mum didn’t really understand depression, so it was hard for Dad. It has also affected myself, my husband and children.

If you’re a person who has never suffered from mental illness, you may think it’s a selfish act to take your own life and, it is. It’s so hard on those left behind.  I also understand that sometimes, it feels like there’s no way out but please believe me that there is always another way.

Where to Get Help

When I Googled where to get help, there are so many places.  

In New Zealand, look at this website.

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If you live elsewhere in the World, look at this website.

Donate

I am particularly passionate about mental health as it’s affected my life.  If you would like to help, please donate to one of the charities that works with people who suffer from depression and other mental illness.

What’s Up is a helpline for children and teens.

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Lifeline is a helpline for adults in distress.

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Samaritans do really good work as well and they are worldwide.

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That’s allI have for you this week.  I appreciate that you read this post and please, if you know someone in need, don’t wait, take action to help in anyway you can, whether that’s just a friendly voice on the phone or something more. Please don't feel like you can't do enough - whatever you do, it will help in some small way and you never know, that just may be enough.

Please help.

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Just Before You Go

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