Suicide Prevention: Be One Who Lived

My good friend Josh Smith grew up in a home with three brothers and two amazing parents. But tragically, after private struggles with mental health, two of his brothers died by suicide, in separate incidents.

Years later, while going to college, on the evening of October 30, 2010, after more than a decade of battling bullying and mental health struggles, my good friend Josh Smith jumped off the Clark Memorial bridge in Indiana, in a suicide attempt. He had 3 young children and a loving supportive wife.

But miraculously, with several broken ribs, Josh is one of the few who survived that jump. He received both the medical and mental help he needed, went back to school, and earned a degree in psychology.

Today, as a psychologist, Josh spends countless hours helping other children and teens with their own mental health battles. And yes, there are days when Josh still has thoughts of hurting himself. But instead of staying quiet, he gets help, takes some medication, and talks with his wife. He’s open. He’s honest. And he’s one of my heroes.

His message to all who will hear, is choose to be one who lived. Because there is so much to live for. There is help and there is hope.

So reach out. Be aware. Be one who lived.