Breaking The Silence Around Suicide And Depression - #NSPW2016

Sometimes silence can be the most telling of warning signs. Silence can represent a struggle like depression. It's a mental health issue that doesn't carry a smell or a distinct list of symptoms. No, it's not the type of thing you can really pick up on. Which is why so many people who struggle with the mental health issues feel as if they're alone and remain silent. Even if they're not.

Depression is unfortunately one of the leading causes of suicide and as this is National Suicide Prevention Week we're breaking the silence. The relationship between suicide and depression is something we need to talk about more. Luckily, this short film, Something in the Silence,
Part of a series by ClimbingTheWall, dives into what it means to be struggling with overwhelming thoughts of self harm and the silence wrought by those feelings.

This silent struggle isn't a slow burn. It's not a subtle thing that can be combatted with distraction. No, as Jean describes in the video above, it's as an immediate breakdown that feels like your hurdling out of an airplane. That unnerving feeling of uncertainty can cause someone to feel like they've lost control and give into the urges of self harm. The reality of depression is a circular narrative of fleeting hope that leaves many people struggling with poverty and loss.

Yet, there is hope.

Together we must push past the physical barriers of depression and mental health issues in order to create a safe space for people who struggle quietly. If we make those who are struggling feel safe, they can overcome the urges of self harm. Let's all create a culture of acceptance and understanding. It's time we break the silence around mental health.

For more of Climbing the Wall's series on suicide prevention head here.