Loss.

This virus is devastating. Not just because of the health risk of the actual virus, but because of how social distancing and and isolation can potentially affect those who live with mental illness.

As someone who deals with depression (among other things), I can say for myself that being cut off from everything and everybody sets a dangerous tone. For me, being alone with my thoughts for too long can often lead to a downward spiral. My trick for combating that, is getting out of the house, running errands, meeting with friends, going to a movie…. social distraction.

When those options are taken away – as they have been with this pandemic – so is an important coping mechanism. Add into that a sudden loss of income, well… I’m sure you can imagine.

Sometimes, when the darkness comes, it’s too much to bear.

I lost someone very close to me the other day. She struggled with depression her whole life. She managed as well as she could, and we’d lean on each other if things got rough.

I spoke with her - not even a week ago, making plans to visit in early May.

I don’t know what happened. This one time she didn’t reach out, and now she’s gone.

I’m devastated.

I don’t know how to deal with this. So, for now, I’m asking all you religious and spiritual folks to pray for her. Pray for those of us she left behind; her siblings, her mom, her nieces and nephews.

Pray for her son.

~~~

Please. EVERYONE. If you are dealing with any kind of mental illness, or depression, or anxiety, or whatever … please lean on your community. Reach out.

If you have soneone in your life who struggles, check in. Reach out. You could save a life.

~~~

National suicide prevention hotline: 1-800-273-8255

My family took me to the hospital few weeks ago. I just got the bill. Next time just let me die. I am beyond broke now.