Shining a Light on Mental Health: National Suicide Prevention Month & My Novel Invisible Sun
Updated: Sep 25, 2023
National Suicide Prevention Month, My Upcoming Novel Invisible Sun, and Lifelines of Support.
As September unfolds, I find myself reflecting on a profound and deeply personal journey that has been both the catalyst and the backdrop for my upcoming novel, Invisible Sun. This month holds special significance for me as it marks National Suicide Prevention Month. In this blog post, I'll share my thoughts on this important month, the impact suicide has had on my life, and how Invisible Sun explores the complex terrain of mental illness, choice, time, and human connection.
National Suicide Prevention Month: A Time to Remember and Reflect
National Suicide Prevention Month serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support. It's a time when we come together to remember those we've lost to suicide, support those who are struggling, and emphasize the significance of seeking help when needed.
If you or someone you know is in a crisis, dial 988 or text TALK to 741-741
I can assure you that suicide is real. It destroys lives, shakes the pillars of your beliefs, and it fractures families. For me, this month carries an even deeper resonance. Twenty-one years ago, my older brother Chris lost his battle with mental health, leaving an indelible void in my life and an enduring awareness of the profound impact of suicide. Chris's passing was a painful and life-altering experience that has shaped my perspective and my commitment to addressing mental health challenges through my writing.
Invisible Sun: A Journey into the Human Psyche
My novel, Invisible Sun, is a labor of love and introspection, born from the crucible of personal experience and empathy for those grappling with mental health challenges. It is not a memoir but an attempt to explore choices through the eyes of Ian, the protagonist. It delves into the intricate tapestry of the human mind, questioning the bonds of brotherhood, the influence of belief systems, and the enigmatic interplay of reality and perception.
Through the pages of Invisible Sun, I aim to peel back the layers of the human psyche. I want readers to explore the complexities of mental illness to understand that it's not a one-size-fits-all experience but a deeply individual struggle. The novel invites readers to join Ian on a journey through raw emotions, illuminating the depths of pain and the search for solace and understanding.
Exploring the Impact of Choices and Resilience
One of the central themes of Invisible Sun is the exploration of choices and their consequences. In the wake of my brother's death, I've grappled with the concept of choice, endless regret, and how it intertwines with mental health. The novel encourages readers to reflect on the choices they make in their own lives and to consider the multifaceted factors that influence those decisions.
Moreover, Invisible Sun invites readers to contemplate the resilience of the human spirit. It's a testament to the strength that can be summoned in the face of adversity and the transformative power of understanding and connection. The story serves as a reminder that we can find solace and hope even in the darkest of times.
As we navigate National Suicide Prevention Month, my hope is that Invisible Sun can serve as a conduit for empathy and understanding. It's a story that has been etched into my soul, borne from the impact of suicide on my life and the lives of countless others. Together, let us embrace this month as an opportunity to remember, reflect, and reach out to those in need. By breaking the silence surrounding mental health, we can bring hope and healing to those who are struggling and honor the memories of those we have lost along the way.
Invisible Sun is set to release on October 17th, 2023.
Resources that can help:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): Website: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Phone: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
Crisis Text Line (USA): Website: www.crisistextline.org
Text "HOME" to 741741
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth): Website: www.thetrevorproject.org
TrevorLifeline: 1-866-488-7386
TrevorText: Text "START" to 678678
International Suicide Hotlines: www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html
Befrienders Worldwide (International): Website: www.befrienders.org
Veterans Crisis Line (USA): Website: www.veteranscrisisline.net
Phone: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration - USA): Website: www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357)
Mental Health America: Website: www.mhanational.org
Suicide Prevention Australia: Website: www.suicidepreventionaust.org
Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP): Website: www.suicideprevention.ca
Samaritans (UK and Ireland): Website: www.samaritans.org
Phone (UK): 116 123
Phone (Ireland): 116 123
Lifeline (Australia): Website: www.lifeline.org.au
Phone: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue (Australia): Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
Phone: 1300 22 4636
Kids Help Phone (Canada): Website: www.kidshelpphone.ca
Phone: 1-800-668-6868
New Zealand Mental Health Foundation: Website: www.mentalhealth.org.nz
Phone: 1737 (for crisis support)
Please note that if you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a life-threatening crisis, it's essential to call emergency services (911 in the United States) or go to the nearest emergency room for help. These helplines and websites are valuable resources for providing support and assistance for those dealing with mental health and suicidal thoughts.
