In a world that often races ahead, consumed by its relentless pace, there are moments when we need to pause, reflect, and unite for a cause that transcends borders and backgrounds. Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10th, is one such occasion—a day when we come together to shed light on a topic that deserves our utmost attention and compassion. Today, I invite you to join me on a personal journey of reflection, as we explore the pivotal moments in my life that have led me to advocate for creating hope through action.
My Personal Journey: Reflections on Suicide Prevention Day
As I sit down to write this on Suicide Prevention Day, I am reminded of a pivotal moment in my life that I feel compelled to share. It’s a story of resilience, the importance of medical guidance, and the vital role of active listening in our society.
A few years ago, I found myself on a week-long course of steroids prescribed by my physician to bring my platelet levels up prior to a medical procedure. At the outset, I had no idea about the potential side effects of these medications. The initial days were quite a revelation – I felt an incredible surge of energy, becoming remarkably productive. It was as though I had tapped into a hidden reservoir of motivation and vitality.
However, as the days passed, something began to change within me. My appetite soared to unprecedented levels, and I found myself eating at all hours, even in the dead of night. Strangely, hallucinations began to creep into my reality, and I felt like I was slowly losing touch with my true self.
The tipping point came when I made a decision that was entirely out of character for me. I contemplated starting a political party to address social issues, something that seemed utterly unreal given my usual disposition. It was then that I decided to discontinue the medication abruptly, believing it was causing these peculiar changes in me.
Suggested Read (an anecdote from my life): How I Became The Teacher She Could Come To When She Was In Distress
The consequences of my impulsive decision hit me like a freight train. The very next day, I experienced palpitations, overwhelming negative emotions, and breathlessness. I couldn’t comprehend what was happening to me. Simple tasks felt insurmountable; even lifting a plate of food became an exhausting challenge. I felt weak, helpless, and unable to muster the strength to carry out even the simplest daily activities.
It was during this time that I was brought face to face with the darkest thoughts imaginable. The emotional turmoil and despair reached a point where I began contemplating suicide. The pain was excruciating, and I felt utterly alone.
But I was fortunate. I was saved, not just by a fleeting moment of clarity but by the support of my husband, my preceptor and friends who noticed my struggle. They listened without judgment, and their presence was a lifeline that pulled me back from the abyss of despair.
I share this deeply personal experience on Suicide Prevention Day with two important messages in mind.
Firstly, it is crucial for physicians to provide comprehensive information about medications and their potential side effects when prescribing them. Informed patients are better equipped to make decisions about their health, potentially avoiding the kind of situation I found myself in.
Secondly, let us all remember the importance of being there for one another and truly listening. In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook the struggles people may be facing. By cultivating the art of listening, we can create a more compassionate and supportive society where individuals in distress have a safe space to share their burdens.
As we conclude this journey of reflection on Suicide Prevention Day, let us carry with us the understanding that hope is not merely a concept but a tangible force that we can cultivate through our actions. It begins with healthcare providers explaining the potential side effects of medications, ensuring that patients are well-informed and equipped to make decisions about their well-being.
Moreover, it extends to each of us becoming skilled listeners, open to the struggles of those around us. By lending a compassionate ear and offering support without judgment, we can be the beacon of hope someone desperately needs in their darkest hour.
This Suicide Prevention Day, let us remember that by creating hope through action, we have the power to save lives, to comfort hearts, and to build a world where despair is met with empathy and understanding. Together, we can be the change that makes every day a little brighter, one act of kindness at a time.
Here’s something I want to leave you with, Hope. Read the following post 🙂
This post is a part of the Blogchatter Half Marathon.
This post is a part of #CauseAChatter.
