We have created a society where, if you’re anything less than “perfect,” you’re not good enough.

The amount of people that wake up every morning feeling worthless or that they’d be better off dead is uncomfortably high, and that is a reality that extends to students, too. If you’ve ever felt like this, take heart: tomorrow needs you.   

Mental illness is something that tears down the lives of too many people. These illnesses carry discouragement and instability, causing people to shut out the people that mean the most to them, just because they don’t know how to handle what they are going through properly. It’s hard to see the good in life after all of that. Seeking help is much harder than it’s thought to be, and instead of being taught to get help, we are taught to ignore the bullies, toughen up, or be gritty. We are expected to not rely on others for help, that you can only truly help yourself. Contrary to what we’re told, it is crucial that we advocate for ourselves, and that we also help others in their time of need. We need to go out of our way to spread kindness and let everyone know that they are wanted, and that the negative thoughts inside their heads can be silenced and aren’t in control. Tomorrow needs you.

Depression is not just sadness; it is a feeling of being lost that can take over your entire life. It is not something you can choose, and mental illness is just as valid as a physical injury or illness. Without help, depression will only get worse, and thoughts of self harm or suicide can enter your mind because you have no other place to go. According to the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, there are 123 suicides per day. In 2015, around 500,000 people visited hospitals due to self harm. Boys die from suicide 3.53 times more than girls because society tells guys that being open about their feelings shows weakness, and that they must maintain their “macho” persona at all times. If you are struggling with depression or other kinds of mental illness, one of the most important things you can do for yourself is to look for a coping method that is healthy and works for you, and if you are feeling suicidal or feel like you may be a threat to your own health, it is imperative that you seek help. That is not something that you can or should have to face alone, and you have people that love and care for you. Tomorrow needs you.

You are not your mental illness. Your inner demons and flaws do not define who you are as a person. You are enough. You have a reason to stay. You have a purpose. Even if you don’t feel like you are enough, it is important to know that you impact the lives of others more than you can ever know. You are worth so much more than what words can say about you, so much more than what people think about you. Don’t give in and don’t give up, you are worth way more than a name on a grave stone or a “RIP” hashtag on twitter.  The struggles you endure don’t define you. You are only still in high school. It gets better. No matter how much you are going through, taking your life simply isn’t worth it. Find a passion, read a book, take a walk, paint something random. Stop existing and start living, because you deserve to. Tomorrow needs you.

1-800-273-8255 : National Suicide Prevention Hotline