I’ve been thinking a lot today about how important advocacy and activism is for the mental health of people. My healing has come from relationships, other people advocating for me, building community with people who have similar experiences, medications, and mental health professionals.
Individual healing isn’t always possible without systemic change. If you are involved in advocacy and activism, you are helping prevent suicide. Housing, job security, wages, discrimination, racism, social support, and many other factors impact mental health. If you are protesting police brutality, speaking up about the wage gap, advocating for resources for BIPOC communities during this pandemic, or talking to a friend about inclusive and kind language, you are helping provide hope for the future. Resources and connection in all areas of life is suicide prevention.
Activists and advocates: I see you, and you are doing amazing work. You deserve support and safe community. I am so grateful for everything you do, and you shouldn’t have to carry all of this alone.
To everyone: the world is a better place with you in it. I am so glad that you are here!
If you want to read more about my story or contribute to my fundraiser for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, check out this link here.
