SDK’s Awareness for Mental & Physical Health
First Descents
“First Descents provides life-changing outdoor adventures for young adults (ages 18 - 39) impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions.” “Home.” https://firstdescents.org/ . First Descents, First Descents 2020. 10/26/20.
First Descents was a life changing, empowering and healing experience in my life. During my week trip and adventure in Mount Hood, Oregon I made friends that will last a lifetime. And not only that, but I also found a new confidence and trust in my body that had been lost for sometime. Courtesy of my dear friend and fellow cancer survivor Daniel, here’s a video link that shows some of our trip in Mount Hood, Oregon.
Stupid Cancer
“Stupid Cancer's mission is to empower young adults affected by cancer by ending isolation and building community.” “Who Are We”. https://stupidcancer.org/ . Stupid Cancer, Inc., Stupid Cancer, Inc., 2007. 10/26/20.
Cancer diagnosis and treatment was the most isolating and lonely time in my life to say the least. It’s hard to put into words but during and after treatment I truly wanted nothing to do with cancer, I just wanted to move on. I ignored that moment in my life for some time until I realized I needed healing and to connect with others that had gone through similar to what I had. Though I was hesitant and nervous, Stupid Cancer’s, Cancer Con 2018 in Denver, CO, was that first step towards gaining a sense of belonging and being able to relate with others. I ultimately found a whole new family that could understand me, what I had gone through and what I felt with such ease. It was the family I never knew I needed.
Mental Health America
“Founded in 1909 by Clifford W. Beers, Mental Health America (MHA) is the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and promoting the overall mental health of all. MHA’s work is driven by its commitment to promote mental health as a critical part of overall wellness, including prevention services for all; early identification and intervention for those at risk; integrated care, services, and supports for those who need them; with recovery as the goal.” “About Us”. https://www.mhanational.org/ . 2020 Mental Health America, Inc., Mental Health America, Inc., 2020. 10/26/20.
Mental Health & Illness is something I believe continually needs more attention, focus and discussion. No matter who you are mental health has no boundaries, it affects everyone. For some time in my life, I ignored my mental health and closed myself off. It wasn’t until I began to address it and open up that I could start to understand how and why I felt certain ways. Mental health and illness is something I still deal with everyday but by being aware and openly acknowledging its impact and effect, I am able to work through it step by step.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
“Established in 1987, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is a voluntary health organization that gives those affected by suicide a nationwide community empowered by research, education and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.” “About AFSP”. https://afsp.org/ . 2020 American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention 2020. 10/26/20.
You may never know what the person next to you is going through. Like I said mental health and illness affects everyone in their own way and unfortunately it sometimes it leads to tragic loss of life. Whether you have ever lost a loved one or struggled with suicide yourself, just know that you are never alone. Millions of people are affected each year by suicide. So as people, let’s continue to bring more awareness, discussion and connection to help put a stop to this tragic loss of life.
If you or someone you know is in crisis please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 OR contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.