While I wouldn’t say I like starting a new year on such a dark topic, sometimes you can only get to the light by going through the darkness. What I have done is spend considerable time in my life dealing with a very dark, serious and scary topic that far too many people are afraid of even discussing. Suicide.
Yes, ending one’s life, especially the desire, is far more prevalent than most realize or understand. Recently, I lost a friend of a professional nature to suicide, which reminded me of why it’s so important to discuss this taboo topic openly. When I started writing this column, I promised all of you that I would give you the brutal truth about whatever topic was on the table. And this one is a doozy, so hang on to your hats—it will be a wild ride.
Since I was 12 years old, I have lost dozens of people to suicide. Yes, dozens. Be it classmates from any of the absurdly pretentious private schools I attended, girls I had dated, friends from the club scene or just life in general, I have seen far too many surrender their lives for whatever darkness they were enduring. According to estimates based on the last five years, just over 13 million people seriously considered suicide and 1.6 million committed the act. That means just under 4% of this nation wanted to end their life with half of a percent following through.
LIFE IS PRECIOUS
At one point, I believed I would not live to see my 18th birthday for many reasons. And I did try to make sure that the tempting of fate came to fruition. Yes, I have attempted to end my life. I could not be more thankful that I am one of the over 700,000 Americans who survive suicide attempts every year. Just so we are being 100% transparent, I aborted my last attempt before it was too late because I realized what so many had been telling me for far too long—that my life is worth living.
Do I condone suicide? No. I do condone open conversation about it, though. In 2025, I find it appalling that so many take extreme measures to avoid the subject. Even just talking about it with those closest. There is no shame in being so desperate that you want to give up. The only shame I could see in that is not learning from an attempt that life is worth living. I fear that so many don’t openly discuss this topic. Without conversation, solutions are never presented. After all, suicidal tendencies have existed since the dawn of humanity. So why the taboo in the 21st century? Because so many fear the end and don’t want to be reminded just how fragile our lives are. Others want to continue sticking their heads in the sand, thinking everything is roses and unicorns.
Millions of people who suffer from depression can become suicidal. Yes, I do suffer from a form of depression. It is not constant, nor is it overriding in my psyche. Sometimes, getting my head out of that frame of mind is difficult, but I work hard to remind myself that there are many things worth living for. I try to focus on what makes life enjoyable, like love, great meals, and adventures. No, I am not suicidal. However, I am human and sometimes we make mistakes.
But as I said, there is no shame in that. The only shame I see is that people are missing the opportunity to get the relief and psychiatric care they need to resolve their problems because they are too afraid that they will appear weak or unreliable.
THE FINAL WORD
In 2025, we need to end the stigma that comes with depression and suicidal tendencies. We must empower those who need help to seek it out without fear of repercussions and damage to their lives, should they choose to live. Suicide is a part of life. It’s time we embrace that to help those so clearly in need. I know the teenage me would have been grateful for that kind of help all those decades ago.
If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or dial 988 from any phone to be connected to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. All calls are confidential.
My friends here’s to a bright, beautiful, and enjoyable 2025 together!
Slainte!