Trigger Warning: The following content discusses sensitive topics related to mental health and suicide. Reader discretion is advised.

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Alex’s foggy eyes stared out of the window of her tiny apartment. The wind breathed into her face and made her feel better—just for a little while, just for a second. It didn’t last long, as soon she heard voices in the back of her head. The same voices that were always taunting her.

“No one likes you-”

“Your boyfriend must have really low standards-”

“Want me to dump some trash in the bin? Would save you the trouble of walking home-”

“Ew, you don’t use skincare? Explains your face-”

“No one loves you, not even your dead mother-”

Alex felt hot tears drip down her face, and she brushed them away. Without thinking, she opened the window completely and stuck her head out, looking at the street below. Cars sped in all directions, and people the size of ants walked along the sidewalks, perfectly unaware of what was happening up above.

“Did it hurt, Mum?” Alex whispered to herself. “Dying?”

No. It couldn’t hurt more than living. Not now. Not ever.

Ever wasn’t going to come, though.

With her head outside of the window, Alex took in a deep breath. She could do it; 16 was old enough. This had been on her mind for over three years, and she was just so sick of thinking. I just want it to end, she thought, and for the first time in her life, Alex didn’t hesitate.

Shakily, she climbed out onto the window ledge, and with a small gasp, she dropped. The wind whipped against her face as she fell quickly through the air, like a skydiver without a parachute. She spun around gracefully and saw that she was almost on the ground. Nearly there, she thought… nearly home.

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Hello readers. Thank you for joining us today to discuss a severe topic. This topic is no laughing matter; please take it seriously. A somber silence seeps into the pages of this magazine as I present to you a day many of you might be unfamiliar with: World Suicide Prevention Day.

What is World Suicide Prevention Day?
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is celebrated on September 10. This day raises awareness of suicide and self-harm. It encourages people to step up and help others who have thoughts of suicide, and it promotes the message that suicide is not the answer.

What is suicide?
Suicide is a term used when someone decides to end their own life intentionally. The causes for suicide are usually mental illness, like depression, and a way for the person to put an end to the pain they experience. However, a suicide attempt is different and is used when someone tries to end their life but fails.

Before we go further, let me make something clear, dear readers:
It is never okay to end your own life. Not now, not ever. No one will sit around while you try to hurt yourself. Save them some trouble, and instead, get help. It would make everyone much happier if you did, and over time, it will make you happier too. Don’t shatter the hearts of those who love you. Be brave, and stand up. This may be hard to hear, but killing yourself won’t help. The grief your fellow family and friends will go through will be more than you can imagine. It might be effortless for you to end your life, but it shouldn’t feel like an easy choice. Remember that recovery isn’t easy either, so you must try. Try for everyone who cares about you, but most importantly, try for yourself.

What can I do if someone I know or I am having suicidal thoughts?
1. Know the signs. Recognise if you or one of your friends seems to be having suicidal thoughts. If you feel hopeless, out of options, or like you’ll never feel better, reach out for help. Know that there are ways out of this, and that things can get better.
2. See a healthcare professional if you are having suicidal thoughts. Seeing someone will help you cope with your emotions. Even a little conversation with your friends and family can make you feel better. Everyone wants to help you and make sure you’re safe, and trust me, they do care about you! Please don’t ever feel scared or ashamed of reaching out for help. Talk to someone.
3. Be resilient. Resilience signifies adapting and recovering from a complex life change or situation. You MUST be resilient when facing depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts. Don’t be afraid of giving in because this is something you can improve on and get past, whereas if you give up, there isn’t any more hope. Try to light a flame in the darkness! Don’t stay silent and do nothing, and especially do not try to harm yourself.
4. Raise awareness so that more people know about suicide and how to prevent it. That is the whole point of WSPD, and even this article I’m writing!

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Before we end this chapter, I wanted to include some resources for anyone reading this. If you don’t know where to get help and you need to talk to someone, know that there are many sources for you, no matter who you are and where you live.

Additional Information & Recognising Suicide:
https://sprc.org/warning-signs-for-suicide/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/suicide
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/suicidal-feelings/about-suicidal-feelings/

Global Hotlines & Resources:
https://blog.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

To conclude, I’ll say this one more time: please do not commit suicide. Trust me when I say NO ONE wants you to die, and that includes all of you, dear readers. Take some action against suicide, and stay resilient. Make sure to check in with a healthcare professional if you are feeling suicidal or if someone you know is. If you can’t do that, chat with someone you trust, and give yourself the help you deserve.

Step up, raise your voice, and put the banner up:
“World Suicide Prevention Day forever, hear our cry!”
“Be strong, determined, and resilient - don’t attempt to die!”

Written by Hazel Antler.
Edited by Daphne Clarke.
Proofread by Lily.