This week’s Thoughts on Things Thursday come with a heavy heart, but I can only hope they will help someone if they are struggling.
We lost two clients this week. One lived fully to an old age and died peacefully; the other tragically chose to take his own life. Two drastically different circumstances; together, they weigh heavily on all of our hearts. All of the planning we conduct helps tremendously in times of tragedy, but I always wish we had done more or had more time to help them.
I am not a psychologist, so I do not clinically understand the circumstances or mental state surrounding suicidal thoughts and actions. I do know, however, that most of us at one time have felt trapped, depressed, or powerless over our current circumstances or feelings. Life is a series of peaks and valleys, ebbs and flows. We have our good days, and we have our bad days. As a financial planner, I have found that there are solutions to every financial problem. The answer may not be ideal, and it may not present itself immediately, but it always exists. I believe the same holds true for any life problem we may face.
It’s OK To Ask For Help
To find solutions, it is sometimes necessary to seek help and guidance, and that is OK. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. There seems to be a stigma around mental health and people being weak because of it. That is not the case. If you find yourself in a deep and dark valley and aren’t sure how to get out, do not hesitate to ask for help from those around you. The burdens of life in a broken world can be overwhelming for anybody. Do not bear them alone or feel like you have to struggle in silence.
Awareness Around Mental Health
Mental Health Awareness month just came to a close, but that doesn’t mean we should stop talking about it. John Hopkins studies recently estimated that one in four US adults experience mental illness each year, and roughly 50% do not seek treatment.* This is something that needs to change, and the awareness around mental health needs to be there every day.
Remember…
You are not alone and you can overcome the challenges you face. I’ll leave you with a quote for this week: “Promise me you’ll always remember — you’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” — Christopher Robin from Winnie the Pooh
Those are my thoughts, have a blessed Thursday