Finding Hope: Message to Young People Struggling with Suicidal Thoughts

Social Issues Jun 19, 2024 Tim Baker

Dear young one.

If you're reading this, it's because you're feeling overwhelmed right now. It might seem like there’s no way out of the pain you’re experiencing. First, I want you to know that you're not alone. Many young people face these feelings, and there is hope. This message is for you. It’s a reminder that your life is precious and worth fighting for.

You Are Not Alone

Right now, it might feel like no one understands what you’re going through, but you certainly are not alone in your struggle. Many young people experience these intense emotions at some point in their lives. The fact that you’re here, seeking help, shows incredible courage and strength. We are immensely proud of you for doing so. And most of all, you should be proud of yourself.

Your Feelings Matter

Whatever you're feeling right now, it’s important to remember that your emotions are real and valid. Life can be incredibly tough, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Whether you're dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, bullying, or family issues, your feelings are significant. It's important to recognise them but it’s more important to move forward.

The Strength in Connection

One of the most powerful ways to combat these feelings is to connect with someone who cares about you. Share your thoughts and feelings with a friend, family member, teacher, or counsellor. Sometimes, just talking about what you’re going through can provide immense relief. You don’t have to carry any burden alone.

Help Is Here for You

There are people who dedicate their lives to helping young people like you. Therapists, counsellors, and hotlines are there to listen and guide you through difficult times. Speaking to a mental health professional can help you develop coping strategies and remind you that your life holds incredible potential. If speaking to someone doesn’t feel like the right thing to do for you, it’s ok to throw yourself into something constructive. Like going to the gym or starting a new project. There are many ways to find fulfilment in life, and what works for one person might not work for another. We are all different after all.

The Promise of Change

Life is full of changes, and the intense emotions you’re experiencing now won’t last forever. It may be hard to believe, but many people who have felt like you do now have found joy and purpose again. Hold on to the hope that things can and will get better. You always have the power to create a different future for yourself and that’s a power you will never lose no matter what.

Embrace Small Joys

When the future feels uncertain, try to find small moments of joy in your day-to-day life. It could be a beautiful sunset, your favourite song, the comfort of a pet, or a hobby you love. These small moments can add up, reminding you that there are still things in this world worth experiencing and living for.

Your Story Is Still Unfolding

Remember, your story is still being written. You have the strength to change the narrative. By reaching out, seeking help, and holding on to hope, you’re taking the first steps towards a brighter future. Your life has infinite possibilities, and you deserve to see where it can lead.

Immediate Support

If you’re in immediate danger, please reach out to emergency services or a crisis hotline. These services are here to help you through the toughest moments and provide immediate support.

Lifeline

  • 0800 543 354
  • Free text 4357 (HELP)

Youthline

  • 0800 376 633
  • Free text 234

Samaritans

  • 0800 726 666

Closing Thoughts

Your life is incredibly valuable. Your pain is temporary, but your worth is infinite. Please, reach out for support and give yourself the chance to experience the beauty and joy that life can offer. You are not alone, and there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow.

How it feels to be a loving but emotionally incompetent man Social IssuesCulture How it feels to be a loving but emotionally incompetent man I’m one of the lucky ones. As a therapist, I see the usual outcome of childhood trauma: broken relationships and lifelong emotional difficulties. The stories shared in a recent documentary about the emotional impact of English boarding schools, ‘Boarding on Insanity’, reminded me of my own experiences and prompted me to share my learning. Read In Hindsight: The Heartbreak & Tragedy Of The Vaccine Mandates PoliticsSocial IssuesTechnologyCulture In Hindsight: The Heartbreak & Tragedy Of The Vaccine Mandates At the end of 2021, my trauma clinic began to be overwhelmed by a new category of clients: those traumatised by the government's COVID vaccine mandate. Here are some of the stories… Read Surge in SSRI Prescriptions Raises Concerns for Youth Mental Health Social Issues Surge in SSRI Prescriptions Raises Concerns for Youth Mental Health Disturbing trends have emerged from recent data provided by the Ministry of Health in New Zealand revealing a fourfold increase in SSRI prescriptions for children aged 19 and under from 2010 to 2021. Read A Kiwi Leading the Way in Healing Trauma Social Issues A Kiwi Leading the Way in Healing Trauma At Kiwis For Good, we love seeing New Zealanders push the boundaries of what’s possible — especially when it comes to mental wellbeing. One of our trustees, Dr Robin Youngson, is helping to bring a remarkable new approach to trauma healing to Aotearoa. Read Uncovering the Significant Suicide Risk Associated With Gender Affirmation Surgeries Social Issues Uncovering the Significant Suicide Risk Associated With Gender Affirmation Surgeries With the increasing acceptance and prevalence of gender affirmation surgeries, a recent study has revealed a concerning trend: transgender individuals who undergo these procedures are at a higher risk of suicide or self-harm afterwards. This study examined data from over 90 million patients across the United States to understand the connection between gender affirmation surgeries and mental health. The researchers analyzed information from February 2003 to February 2023. Read Miracle in Raglan: A New Hope for Mental Health in New Zealand Social IssuesCulture Miracle in Raglan: A New Hope for Mental Health in New Zealand When we first connected with Dr. Robin Youngson, it felt like discovering a kindred spirit in the fight for true mental health reform. Dr. Youngson, a former anaesthetist turned author and compassionate care advocate, has dedicated his life to bridging the gap between science and the profound, often overlooked, power of human connection. After reading his book, The Science of Miracles, I knew his message had the potential to reshape how we view and approach mental health in New Zealand. Read
Help Us Help Others!

Your donations are incredibly important for us, and enable us to use our initiatives to help our fellow Kiwis.

Donate today
Join Our Newsletter

For the latest news and projects, keep up-to-date with our newsletter. We promise not to spam you; we get enough of that ourselves!