I am amazed that one year can contain the highest highs and the lowest lows. This year, I lost my 16-year-old brother, Sam, dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic and all its frustrating repercussions, felt torn politically between friends and family on both sides of important issues, had COVID, bought our first house, and most importantly, my wife and I welcomed our sweet angel baby girl into the world! The general craziness of 2020 is miniscule compared to the pain of dealing with my brother’s suicide. In the wake of all those life-altering experiences, it's safe to say that healing has often been very difficult for my family and I. Still, with the help of my wife and adorable baby, I have frequently found myself overwhelmed by greater joy than I have ever before experienced. So, today I wanted to write this post to address some main reflections I’ve had this past year, including some things I’ve learned about myself, trauma, mental illness, suicide prevention, and healing. As always...
On March 13, 2020, we lost my 16 year old brother, Sam, to suicide. This blog is dedicated to increasing confidence in the battle with mental illness and suicide, developing our own competence in knowing how to face these challenges, and most importantly, expanding hope.