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Time will pass and seasons will come and go.
Finding Freedom and Joy
Fighting Suicide with Joy
Suicide is a growing crisis in America, affecting millions of people each year. According to the latest statistics:
🚨 Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S.
🚨 Over 48,000 Americans die by suicide each year—that’s one death every 11 minutes.
🚨 Rates of suicide have risen by nearly 30% in the last two decades.
🚨 Men account for nearly 80% of all suicides, with middle-aged men being the most at risk.
🚨 Young adults and teenagers are experiencing record-high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
At Fighting S.A.D., we recognize that joy is not just an emotion—it’s a survival tool. When life feels heavy, joy can be the light that keeps you moving forward. It doesn’t mean ignoring pain, but rather finding moments that remind you life is still worth living.
Why Joy Matters in the Fight Against Suicide
In difficult times, joy may feel out of reach. But studies show that actively engaging in joyful experiences can:
✔ Reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness
✔ Strengthen emotional connections and reduce loneliness
✔ Improve brain chemistry and overall well-being
✔ Create hope and motivation to keep going
Suicide thrives in isolation and despair—but joy interrupts that cycle. Even the smallest moments of happiness can remind you that you are still here, still fighting, and still capable of feeling something good.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
Suicide Is The End, of everything.
Why would someone commit suicide? Why would you?
Why would someone commit suicide? What would need to happen to You, for You to commit suicide?
Why would I kill myself? And why haven’t I?
I ask myself this questions countless times.
I rather be a crook, I rather be a murderer. A thief in the night, a good for nothing human being, I rather be ..
I rather be alive, But I’m tired of being sad.
I ask myself this question countless times. Why am I alive, and others are gone? We have the same thoughts, the same whispers that comfort us and pull us towards death.
I, We would be saying Goodbye - to the pain, goodbye to the sadness that runs through our veins, the dark clouds that shroud our thoughts, we would be saying goodbye to the anger that RAGES through US.
Everything. Everything would come to an end. The pain, the sorrows, the fear of being, and the fear of not being good enough – to love, for love, for friendships.
I don’t blame you for thinking suicide is the answer.
Yet, we would also be saying goodbye to the Sun, to the clouds that look like cats and dogs, goodbye to the sun that makes my face red, and its so hard to not smile then.
We, I would be saying goodbye to the chips that I love, the cold Coke cans that make me smile, goodbye to the laugh I love to hear, goodbye to my friends, goodbye to my mom, goodbye to my loves, goodbye to my nephew Hezi.
I, we would be saying goodbye to everything We love.
Why would someone commit suicide?
Because in that moment, in that instance, we decided that we just want it to stop, we don't want to think about tomorrow, we want the pain to stop. Right now.
What Depression Looks Like Through Ages
Young Kids
Recognizing Depression in Young People
Depression in children and adolescents often looks different from how it appears in adults. Instead of deep sadness, young people may express irritability, frustration, or anger. Emotional struggles may surface as mood swings, school difficulties, or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed.
Physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach aches, or sleep disturbances, can also signal underlying distress. Some may struggle with social anxiety, avoiding friends and family, or expressing feelings of worthlessness.
Signs to Look For:
- Frequent irritability or mood swings
- Loss of interest in hobbies, school, or friendships
- Unexplained physical symptoms (stomach aches, headaches, fatigue)
- Changes in sleep—insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Declining academic performance or trouble focusing
- Social withdrawal or avoiding loved ones
- Engaging in risky behavior, self-harm, or expressing thoughts of suicide
Depression in young people is often overlooked, but early recognition is key. Supportive conversations, emotional validation, and professional guidance can help children and adolescents navigate their emotions in a safe and understanding environment.
Young Adults
Recognizing Depression in Young Adults
Depression in young adults can be complex and often misunderstood. This stage of life brings major transitions—career choices, relationships, and self-identity—making it a vulnerable time for mental health struggles.
Many young adults experience persistent sadness, anxiety, or a deep sense of uncertainty about the future. They may struggle with motivation, feel disconnected from others, or lose interest in activities they once loved.
Signs to Look For:
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Increased self-doubt or feelings of worthlessness
- Disrupted sleep patterns—insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Social withdrawal and avoiding friends or family
- Increased reliance on substances to cope
Recognizing these signs early and encouraging open conversations can make a difference. Support, connection, and understanding are essential in helping young adults navigate their mental health and seek the help they need.
Adults
Recognizing Depression in Adults
Depression in adulthood can be shaped by life responsibilities, stress, and past experiences. Unlike younger individuals, adults may struggle to express their emotions, often suppressing their struggles out of fear of judgment or burdening others.
Common Signs of Depression in Adults:
- Persistent fatigue and low energy levels
- Apathy toward work, family, or social life
- Significant appetite or weight changes
- Increased irritability or frustration over small matters
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or excessive self-criticism
- Recurring thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Depression doesn’t always look the same—it can manifest in withdrawal, burnout, or simply “going through the motions.” Recognizing these signs is crucial in offering compassionate support and encouragement.
By breaking the stigma and normalizing conversations about mental health, we create an environment where seeking help is not a weakness, but a step toward healing. Together, we can ensure that no one has to face depression alone.
🌞Joy (Fights Suicide) - Comfort And Solutions
Comfort – Everyday Laughter Moments
Solution – Joy Micro-Moments Program
Solution – Joy Micro-Moments Program
- You and I share lighthearted stories, memories, or funny daily moments.
- Together we find the small things that make life worth holding on to.
- Our conversations become a reminder that joy can still exist, even on the hardest days.
Example:
We laugh together about your favorite childhood cartoon or a silly moment from the week. That spark of connection reminds us both why holding on matters.
Solution – Joy Micro-Moments Program
Solution – Joy Micro-Moments Program
Solution – Joy Micro-Moments Program
- Each day, you and I practice noticing and sharing “joy sparks.”
- We keep a simple log of what made you smile, and I walk through it with you.
- Weekly check-ins keep us accountable to making joy a daily habit.
Example:
Your prompt is: “Let’s both share one thing today that made us smile.” We exchange our answers, record them, and over time the habit builds into lasting hope.