This September, we’re sharing stories for Suicide Prevention Month.
Today, we share a story from Jasmin Goodwin, who last year served as a member of our Teen Advisory Council and as president of her school’s Our Minds Matter club in D.C. We invite you to share your reflections, or what is on your mind this month, here.
Today, I’m a proud mental health advocate, but it was a peer’s courage to speak up for me that changed my life and showed me the importance of advocating for others.
It was my junior year of high school at School Without Walls in D.C. From ages 13-17, I struggled with grief and suicidal thoughts. At the time, I coped by making dark jokes about suicide when I felt stressed or uncomfortable. But in these jokes, a friend heard a cry for help. She reached out to the school psychologist. At the time, I even felt betrayed by her efforts – but I now acknowledge that without them, I may not be here to tell this story.
I began weekly meetings with my school’s therapist where I confronted my trauma, past and present, head on. I learned the power of speaking openly about my struggles in a safe and controlled space.
This experience, combined with my growing interest in psychology, sparked my decision to join Penguins Minds Matter, my school’s Our Minds Matter club.
My senior year, I became the club’s president, and with my fellow club members, helped foster a safe school community.
One way we did this was through our school-wide campaign, “You Matter,” which encouraged students to consider how they would respond if a peer was in a crisis, or what support they would seek for themselves if they ever felt suicidal.
Jasmin at a Penguin Minds Matter meeting where members participated in a pumpkin decorating activity.
With OMM’s guidance, we addressed the stigma around mental health in big and small ways.
We engaged the whole school through our campaign and we also hosted spaces where students could openly express their concern and struggles in a safe way and without judgement. During my time as president, I even spoke to the DC City Council and urged them to continue funding for the School Behavioral Health Expansion program because of my experience and the way it positively impacted my life.
Now as I start my undergraduate career at Haverford College, OMM has shown me how I can make an impact beyond academics. OMM has given me a seat at the table as an advocate for all teens through opportunities like presenting alongside them at the Mental Health America conference this October. I have learned how to support students who, like me, need to know that they are not alone. And today, I am planning a future career as a mental health counselor.
This Suicide Prevention Month, I want to leave you with this: it’s OK to not be OK.
It only takes the voice of one to change the lives of many. And if you’re struggling, please know and be encouraged to go seek help.
Ps. If no one told you today, I love and care about you.
<3 Jas.
— Written by Jasmin Goodwin
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. 💙