I remember the day you told me you had planned your suicide. You told me what day you would've done it and I remember the numbness in your tone... Like that permanent decision was a second thought and had already been decided.

I remember the panic in my stomach and sadness that overwhelmed my soul. How could someone I love so dearly think the world... that I, didn't need them?

That day came and went and you didn't leave this world, and I cannot tell you how happy I am that you decided to stay.

We've talked about your depression, about how you realized that it was a shadow that would follow you forever.

Depression isn't just the "I'm sad" season in someone's life, often times it is the silent emptiness that consumes all of your energy and the lack of life pushes you to think that the only way out of that depression is to end the pain all together.

I know that sometimes the bad days feel darker and the good days don't always feel bright, and I wish I could protect you from the pain and take it all away.

But let me tell you this... You are LOVED, you are SEEN, and your pain is real and acknowledged. You are not alone, and you may change someone else's life just by being here.

And suicide is not the answer. It never will be.

This world is infinitely better with you in it, please stay.

Sometimes people who are close to you are hard to talk to and talking to someone not involved is easier. There is no shame is asking for help or telling someone that you're struggling.

You can always call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).