She Strengthens

Coping in Crisis: The Unspoken Struggle

As we navigate the unprecedented challenges of 2020, it’s clear that our collective mental health is under siege. Climate change, racial tensions, and a global pandemic have pushed us to confront the dark corners of our psyche. But beneath the surface of our collective anxiety lies a deeper, more personal struggle.

The Weight of Suicidal Ideation

For those who have grappled with suicidal thoughts, the current environment can be overwhelming. I should know – I’m one of them. As I prepare to move to a new city amidst the pandemic, I’m forced to confront the fragility of my own coping mechanisms. The irony is that when I express my stress, people often downplay it, citing the supposed stress of moving as a bigger concern. But for someone who has lived with deep suicidal ideation, this minimization is a painful reminder of the stigma surrounding mental health.

Breaking the Silence

September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a poignant reminder of the importance of open conversation. It’s a topic that’s deeply personal for me, having spent most of my life in the prevention phase. Developing the courage to articulate my vulnerabilities has been a hard-won battle. When celebrities like Chester Bennington and Anthony Bourdain died by suicide, it shook me to my core. Their deaths forced me to confront the darker corners of my own mind, and to seek help.

Beyond #TalkingAboutIt

While destigmatizing mental health is crucial, it’s only half the battle. We need to move beyond superficial conversations and delve into the root causes of our pain. Journalist Elly Belle’s guide to talking about suicidality is a powerful resource for those seeking a more nuanced approach. By acknowledging the complexity of our emotions, we can begin to heal.

Embracing Emotional Awareness

This month, we’re exploring the intricacies of emotional awareness. From the bodily experience of emotions to the weight of shame and jealousy, our writers are tackling the toughest topics. Therapist Jor-El Caraballo shares his insights on handling anger as a BIPOC man, while relationship expert Melissa Fabello teaches us how to unground jealousy and cultivate compersion.

Supporting Each Other

If you’re a listening partner, one of the most supportive things you can do is to ask how the person wants to talk – or if they even want to talk. Stay with them when they’re struggling to tread water, and acknowledge that sometimes, simply surviving is enough. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I resort to “floating,” a term coined by Anna Borges to describe the tools for managing suicidality. It’s okay to float, to just survive – and it’s crucial that our loved ones recognize this.

A Conversation Starter

As we embark on this journey of emotional awareness, I hope this series provides a catalyst for vulnerable conversations. Whether you’re struggling to articulate your emotions or seeking to support a loved one, remember that you’re not alone. Start the conversation by saying, “Hey, I don’t really have the brain waves to explain what I’m going through right now without feeling like a burden. But this explains it pretty well.” You never know who might be listening.