Suicide Awareness Month: A Millennial Shares His Thoughts on Suicide Prevention (a Must Read) by Joy Stephenson-Laws JD [inactive]

With the increase in suicide rates and celebrities who have ended their own lives, suicide is a hot topic. Kyle Stephenson, a Millennial, shared his thoughts on suicide. Here's a little of what he had to say:

"Suicide has been in the news lately. We have lost two famous people to suicide this week – Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain. Earlier in the year, we also lost Avicii. And there are many others who were not famous who also committed suicide.

"I am not a doctor or mental health professional. But suicide used to be on my mind in the past. If you are a friend or family member of someone who might commit suicide, nonchalantly ask how we are doing or what we are looking forward to doing. Look for an answer that is not work or school related. Having a good job or doing well in school does not mean you are truly happy. It just means you are doing well according to societal standards. It is more important that you are happy with yourself and personal relationships, rather than your job or being in school.

"Then find an activity or location, like a park or a mini vacation, where we can have some fun, get comfortable and open up. If we have a preference in activity, volunteer to do it with us so we can unwind and logically figure out the best course of action, like getting help, etc. At the end of the day, we only have one life and there are no strict guidelines on how to live that life."

Read more of a Millennial's thoughts on suicide via phLabs.com.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text "help" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.

Kyle Stephenson is a 25-year-old young adult who overcame addiction and obesity and has dedicated his life to helping others do the same.

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