I once imagined what it would be like if I weren’t here anymore: would my friends still send messages, waiting for a reply that never comes; would my mother still hover around my room, expecting me to walk back in; would my bed stay unmade, as if saving a space for me? These questions used to visit me in the quiet hours, and they are why I am writing to you now.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and this letter is for you—my kind. We wear smiles every day, yet behind those smiles many of us weather storms no one sees, and I was that girl who faced panic attacks alone while convincing everyone I was okay. That’s the thing about mental health: it doesn’t announce itself on your forehead. You might think you know someone’s story, but often you’re only scratching the surface.
Young people keep showing up—at school, at work, for friends and family—pushing through deadlines, expectations and disappointments while boxing in the feelings that slowly eat them alive. When the weight becomes unbearable, the mind finds cruel solutions and whispers, “You’re alone. No one cares. The world is better off without you.” I need you to hear me when I say those voices are lying; I have been there countless times.
Suicide does not end pain — it passes it on. Every year more than 700,000 people die by suicide and countless more attempt it. But reaching out can change the outcome: research shows that talking to someone trusted, even for a few minutes, can reduce suicidal feelings. If the thoughts hit hard, here are practical steps that helped me and have helped others:
- Talk to someone immediately. A friend, family member, mentor or a crisis line — silence isolates; speaking up eases the load.
- Create a safety plan. Write down your reasons to live, people you can call, and safe distractions to use when the urge comes.
- Limit harmful triggers. Avoid isolation, substances, or content that worsens your mood.
- Ground yourself. Deep breathing, a short walk, or journaling can interrupt overwhelming thoughts.
- Seek professional help. Therapists, counsellors and support groups exist for a reason — you don’t have to carry this alone.
I know it can feel endless, but your story does not have to end here; there is so much life ahead: dreams you haven’t lived, people you haven’t met, victories you haven’t won. What feels like a full stop right now is only a comma — your life is still being written.
For me, healing began with self-development; for you it might be art, faith, sports, volunteering or therapy. Whatever it is, let it remind you that hope is not lost. It’s not time to dig your grave — it’s time to be brave enough to stay, brave enough to try, brave enough to heal. One day you’ll look back and realise your survival allowed someone else to keep fighting too.
The world is better with you in it. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help immediately.
— Mosimiloluwa | Writer @ Campus Cares