A Safe Place with Luis D. Aponte
Author and filmmaker, Luis Aponte explores solutions with in-depth research and interviews with experts on how communities can help prevent the next school shooting. Sign up for updates on Luis's book, "A Safe Place: Imagining Schools without Gun Violence" at https://asafeplacebook.com/
A Safe Place with Luis D. Aponte
Suicide: Let's Talk About It
Yesterday, on October 31st, 2022, I learned that my sister committed suicide. The emotional and mental anguish my family and I are experiencing is overwhelming. I wish we could have all been there to help her through her darkest moment.
Sometimes I know it’s easy to get stuck in a dark place. It can feel like you’re suffocating with no way out…It’s terrifying. But that is exactly when you need to reach out the most to someone who can help you see the light again. Someone who has a different perspective.
Remind yourself, it’s OK to feel sad. It’s OK to cry. Recognize it. Call it out, even. “I’m feeling sad, angry, or feeling like crap.” Recognize it is only a feeling that will eventually pass, just like a season. It does not have to conquer you. The spring always comes after the winter. You will see the sun again and things will get better.
Reach out to people who care about you and to professional counselors. It is only a season and it will pass.
Please hug your loved ones today and tell them you love them. Take care of each other.