This September, we’re sharing stories for Suicide Prevention Month.
Over the next few weeks, you’ll hear from people whose lives have been forever changed by suicide — and why they’re committed to a world without it. My story is below – and I invite you to share your reflections, or what is on your mind this month, here.
When my brother Josh died by suicide at the age of 17, I was a senior in college – and my world changed in an instant.
I tried to push through my grief, but I struggled with anxiety and depression. I had sleepless nights; I took no joy in social activities. Losing Josh so suddenly and unexpectedly at such a transitional point in my life left me feeling like I had no solid ground to stand on.
There were days when it felt like I would never find peace. But I was lucky. My friends and family – who were also grieving Josh’s loss – supported me through this period of incredible struggle. I started a healing journey that I am still on today.
Why I started OMM
Josh had support, too. He had friends and family, and even a therapist. But he was struggling in silence. After his death, my family and I asked: How could this happen? How could we prevent it from happening to another teen, another family?
And what we kept coming back to was this:
If Josh had heard messages from his peers that it was okay to not be okay, our family’s story could have been different.
This is what drove me to start Our Minds Matter, a peer-led program in schools to destigmatize mental health — and to empower teens to be leaders of change in their school communities. So that anyone suffering in silence can hear the message:
You are not alone.
Why we’re sharing stories this month
September is Suicide Prevention Month – a time when we remember those we’ve lost, and commit to action that can save lives.
This month, we’ll share stories from people who inspire our work: a board member who lost a close friend, a student who turned her struggles into leadership, and the measurable impact your support makes possible.
We’d love to hear from you, too. Tell us what’s on your mind this month — whether it’s someone you’re remembering, a hope you carry for change, or a moment from your life that has shaped how you think about mental health.
If you or someone you know needs mental health support, explore these free resources. You are not alone. 💙