If You’re Reading This, Please Stay
I know it feels like the world is closing in on you. The weight you’ve been carrying for so long seems unbearable, and the thought of relief—any kind of relief—feels like the only way out.
But I need you to hear this: You are not alone. You are not a burden. And this pain is not forever.
I know that might be hard to believe right now. I know the thoughts in your head may be telling you otherwise. But let’s talk about this—really talk. Not as strangers, but as human beings who understand suffering, who know what it’s like to feel lost.
Your Pain Is Real – But So Is the Possibility of Healing
Whatever you are going through, I won’t minimize it. Your pain is real. Your struggles are real. But here’s the most important thing to understand:
Suicidal thoughts are not a sign of weakness. They are a sign that you are overwhelmed. And when someone is overwhelmed, they don’t need to be alone—they need support.
There is nothing wrong with needing help. There is nothing wrong with asking for someone to sit with you in your darkest hour. And I promise you—there is someone out there who wants to listen, who wants to help.
You are worth fighting for.
Please, Reach Out – There Are People Who Care About You
I know that when you’re in this place, it can feel impossible to reach out. You may think, “Nobody will understand,” or “I don’t want to be a burden.” But listen:
✔ Your pain does not make you a burden.
✔ Your struggles do not make you unlovable.
✔ Your existence is not a mistake.
There are people—right now—who want to help you. Who want to remind you that your story isn’t over yet.
📞 Call for help, even if it’s hard.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): Dial 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
- Lifeline Chat (Online Support): 988lifeline.org
- Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
If you don’t feel comfortable talking, that’s okay. Try texting, writing, or reaching out to someone you trust. A friend, a family member, even an online support group—just don’t go through this alone.
Your Feelings Are Temporary – But Your Life Is Worth Fighting For
Right now, your mind might be telling you that nothing will ever change. That the pain will always be this heavy. But that is not true.
Emotions are like waves—they rise, they crash, and then they fade. The feelings you have right now will not last forever.
There are people who were exactly where you are now—who truly believed there was no way forward—and they are still here. They found healing. They found peace. They found reasons to keep going. And you can too.
Even if you can’t see it yet.
What Can You Do Right Now? (Just One Small Step)
I won’t tell you to “just be positive.” I know that’s not how this works. But I will ask you to do one small thing today:
✔ Call or text someone—even if you just talk about everyday things.
✔ Go outside for five minutes. Just breathe. Feel the air.
✔ Write down one reason—just one—why you might stay.
✔ Eat something. Drink a glass of water. Take a shower.
Just one step. That’s all you need to take right now.
The World Needs You – Even If You Can’t See It Yet
You might think no one would care if you were gone. But I promise you—someone would.
Someone would notice. Someone would grieve. Someone would miss you in ways you cannot even imagine.
The world is better with you in it. And even if it doesn’t feel that way right now, I need you to trust me:
There is more life ahead of you. More laughter, more sunrises, more unexpected joys. And one day, you will be so grateful that you stayed.
Please don’t let this chapter be the end of your story. There is still so much left to write.
You are loved. You are needed. You are not alone.
And most of all, you deserve to stay. 💙
Resources for Immediate Help
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait. Reach out now. There are trained professionals who want to help you through this moment.
📞 U.S. Suicide & Crisis Hotlines:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (Free, 24/7)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
- Lifeline Chat (Online Support): 988lifeline.org
- Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
🌎 For International Hotlines:
Visit befrienders.org for a list of crisis helplines worldwide.
💙 If you need to talk, someone is always there. Please, reach out. You are not alone.
