My worst nightmare became a horrifying reality to two nearby families this week.
I can’t imagine anything more painful than losing a loved one to suicide.
Words fail me.

Our school counselor gave a suicide prevention workshop this month. My mind could barely believe the statistics. Suicide claims around one million lives worldwide each year. That’s one suicide every 40 seconds. What?! On top of that, there are ten to twenty attempts for each completed suicide.

As staggering as those numbers are, they are just statistics until someone you know takes their life. What can I even say?

My words are shallow because the suicide dagger has never pierced all of the way into my immediate family—and I am so grateful. There have been close calls, and oh my, they sent my heart racing. I’ve spent many nights desperately praying for my loved one’s protection from depression’s claws. But thankfully they are still here for me to hold.

The only thing I can think to give to those who are grieving are thoughts from people who have actually endured the suicide of a loved one.

“Loss from suicide is like no other loss, and there’s no time limit for grieving. Allow yourself that time to process. And then talk to someone, anyone.” — Deenie Bagley

“The ‘ton of bricks’ that are thrust upon your shoulders by a loved ones’ suicide never goes away. But you do get stronger shoulders.” — Frank Kaufman

“Be patient with yourself. One day you’ll be able to celebrate the life and not focus on the method of death. Please, please, just be patient.” — Judi Swenson

For those of you still stuck in a nightmare: I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.