You Matter. Always. A Message for "You Matter Day"

You Matter Day is on February 10th. And while it feels important to designate a specific day to remind everyone of their inherent value, the truth is, you matter every single day, every single moment.

Life can be relentlessly beautiful, and it can be incredibly challenging. Sometimes, the struggles can feel overwhelming, like a suffocating weight on your chest. You might feel isolated, misunderstood, or like you’re carrying a burden too heavy to share. These feelings, though incredibly painful, are a part of the human experience. And if you’re reading this and experiencing them, please know: you are not alone, and your feelings are valid.

Why Your Mattering is Non-Negotiable

From the youngest child grappling with schoolyard bullies to the teenager navigating identity and social pressures, to the adult facing career setbacks or relationship complexities, to our elders experiencing loneliness or health issues – every single one of us contributes to the rich tapestry of life.

Your Value in the World

• You have a unique perspective. No one else sees the world exactly like you do. Your thoughts, ideas, and opinions add to the collective understanding of our world.
• You have an impact. Whether it’s a kind word, a helping hand, a piece of art, or a scientific discovery, your actions ripple outwards, affecting those around you in ways you might not even realize.
• You deserve joy and peace. You have a right to experience happiness, to feel safe, and to find meaning in your life.
• Your absence would leave a void. Think of the people who love you, even if that love feels distant right now. Your presence makes a difference in their lives, even in subtle ways.

Suicide Awareness: Breaking the Silence

On You Matter Day, and every day, it's crucial we talk about suicide awareness. Suicide is a serious public health crisis, affecting people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. It’s a tragedy that often stems from intense emotional pain, feelings of hopelessness, and a belief that there's no other way out.

But there is always another way.

Here's what we need to remember, for ourselves and for those we care about:

• It's not a sign of weakness. Thinking about suicide is often a symptom of severe emotional distress, not a personal failing.
• It's preventable. With timely intervention, support, and resources, lives can be saved.
• Talking about it doesn't plant the idea. Openly discussing suicide reduces stigma and encourages people to seek help. Ignoring it only pushes it further into the shadows.

Support for All Ages: Because Help Has No Age Limit

For Children and Teens

The pressures today's youth face are immense. Social media, academic expectations, identity struggles, and family dynamics can all contribute to overwhelming feelings.

• What to look for: Changes in behavior (withdrawal, aggression), loss of interest in activities, academic decline, sleep disturbances, talking about hopelessness or death.
• How to help: Create a safe space for them to talk, listen without judgment, validate their feelings, and seek professional help from school counselors, therapists, or pediatricians. Reinforce that their feelings are normal and that help is available.

For Adults

Life's complexities can lead to mental health struggles at any stage. Job loss, relationship breakdowns, grief, chronic illness, and financial stress can all contribute to suicidal ideation.

• What to look for: Mood swings, increased anxiety or depression, withdrawing from social activities, increased substance use, reckless behavior, giving away possessions, making plans, feeling trapped.
• How to help: Reach out, offer a listening ear, express concern without judgment, encourage them to seek professional help (therapy, doctor, support groups), and offer to go with them.

For Seniors

Our elders face unique challenges like isolation, loss of loved ones, declining health, and loss of independence. These can lead to profound sadness and loneliness.

• What to look for: Signs of depression, apathy, neglecting self-care, discussing being a burden, giving away cherished items, social withdrawal.
• How to help: Regular check-ins, combating loneliness through social activities or visits, ensuring access to healthcare and mental health services, listening to their stories, and reminding them of their continued value and wisdom.

If You Are Struggling: Please Reach Out

If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please know that you are not alone, and there are people who want to help. Your pain is real, but so is the possibility of healing.

Please connect with someone immediately:

• Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) in the US and Canada.
• Go to your nearest emergency room.
• Talk to a trusted friend, family member, teacher, counselor, or doctor.

A Call to Action This You Matter Day

Let's make You Matter Day more than just a date on the calendar. Let's make it a commitment:

• Check in with yourself. How are you really doing? Be honest.
• Check in with others. A simple "How are you, really?" can open doors.
• Educate yourself on the signs of mental health distress and suicide risk in different age groups.
• Speak up. Challenge stigma. Support mental health initiatives.
• Be kind. You never know what battle someone else is fighting.

On this You Matter Day, remember your inherent worth. Remember that your story is not over. Remember that help is available. And most importantly, remember: you matter, always. You Matter. Always.