Thanks so much for sharing your story, Maria. I'm also a suicide attempt survivor making an attempt ten years ago. I didn't get any professional help at the time because I was in grad school trying to earn my master's degree in mental health counseling. I felt my world was about to collapse from my weekend job, internship, and having a poor relationship with my mother who I wasn't on speaking terms with. I didn't check myself into a hospital, knowing I should have, but I kept on going. Eventually, I began therapy and journaling after regaining a normal semblance of my life again. This is a struggle no matter how many times I tell myself and others I'm not having any current suicidal ideation, but the thought and the memories are there. Fortunately, sharing our story makes a difference. Like you said, the world needs you, me and anyone else who's a suicide attempt survivor to share their stories for someone experiencing challenging circumstances.

Thanks again, Maria. Keep writing.