NERDS RULE INC's "Fix Ya Crown" Mental Health Blog by Sheneka Speaks

As we reflect on the many people who have lost their lives just this year alone, it has left this whole world in a shock and most are unsure if we will recover from this. Where there used to be community gatherings, there is now a community of people who are living shut in behind closed doors and are suffering in silence. Suicide rates are increasing, and I have also noticed that murder suicides are on the rise.

People are in mental and spiritual war and do not know how to seek help or have lost the community they once knew as a source of relief and comfort.

I am one of those people who have suffered in silence, so I understand the frustration, the uncertainty, and the pain of being alone with nobody to help me through it.

Being forced to isolate yourself from family and friends are a breathing space for depression to kick in and when those dark thoughts come to surface, it is important to recognize that they are not your thoughts. I had to constantly filter through

my thoughts writing them down and do things to drown out these negative thoughts such as listening to positive upbeat music or reading books that spark positive thoughts. It is a process but a process well worth it.

It is imperative that you keep positive things surrounding you. Your self-care starts with you and your mental health is imperative to you becoming your best self.

Here are a few nuggets to help you cope…

Do not give up on yourself: Whether you realize it or not, there are people who look up to you. They need you and they are watching from a distance. People are always invested in you when you least expect it.

Do not do it alone: Stay connected to your family and friends. Tell someone you trust that what you are going through so that someone is aware. If you do not have family or friends to reach out to, there are many groups on social media that would lovingly invite you in as family.

Search mental health, depression, or anxiety groups on Facebook. Stay connected to community!

Start an online journal: Writing your thoughts down is a form of therapy. It releases that negative energy but also allows you to look back and read where you were mentally and I promise, it will shock you are sometimes. If you are not a traditional pen and paper writer, here is an online resource for you to start one online www.penzu.com.

Pray or meditate: Prayer is necessary but if you are not religious, I would suggest meditation. Getting quiet and still is a form of self-awareness. This is what has saved me many times in my life when I am feeling overwhelmed and ready to give up. I would go someone peaceful and pray until I felt the weight of my burdens lifted from me.

Remember: The suicide hotline phone number is 1-800-273-8255

We are all in this together. You are never alone!

Sheneka L. Terry