Erin’s Suicide Prevention Campaign

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and Erin is participating in Khesed’s annual Suicide Prevention Campaign to help open up the conversation around suicide and mental health, and raise awareness of Khesed’s services as a line of support.

By giving to Erin’s campaign, you are directly supporting free mental health therapy sessions through Khesed’s General Pro Bono Program.

In Erin’s words:

“I have struggled with depression since I was 16. At that time I didn't know what it was, only that I couldn't live the way I wanted or feel like myself. I considered self harm. I never wanted to die. But some of the things I considered were dangerous. What I want folks to know who are in this place is that the feeling passed. It took time, it always does. I think the longest was a month. But it passed. I'm grateful my thoughts didn't get to the physical world. With therapy and a support system I have a purposeful and good life.

I support suicide prevention because I want everyone struggling to take the chance to wait and see if the feelings pass. I still have episodes of depression and anxiety. I continue with my therapist. I have a journal full of coping skills and conversations with myself. I have also found a supportive community in the group discussion with Culinary Hospitality Outreach and Wellness. Talking about my problems has given them less power.”