This Suicide Prevention Month, I would like to slow down and take a moment to talk about some ways our well-being, our stories, and our futures can be impacted. I know that life can feel overwhelming. Some days are harder than others, and it’s okay to not feel okay. If you’re carrying pain, sadness, or thoughts that feel too heavy to hold alone, please know this: you are not alone, and there is help.
Depression can look different for everyone. You might feel persistently sad, numb, or even irritable. You may lose interest in things you once enjoyed, struggle with sleep, or feel constantly tired. Some people experience changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, or a sense of hopelessness or guilt. Sometimes, these feelings of emptiness can lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
If any of this resonates with you, please understand: you are not broken. These are signs of suffering, not signs of weakness. Suffering can be eased—with support, with care, and with time.
Reaching out for help is one of the bravest things you can do. Whether it’s talking to a friend, a therapist or doctor, or calling a crisis line, that first step can open the door to healing. You don’t have to go through this alone.
If you or a loved one need immediate assistance, the 24-Hour Suicide and Crisis Hotline is a call away at 988.
You can find suicide prevention resources for teens, veterans, the Trevor Project and more on our Light Up Hope OC website which inspires hope.
If you need help navigating, you can contact a resource navigator, or start with a wellness check-in, or simply search resources in Orange County at OC Navigator.
You are not a burden. You are human—and you are worthy of support, healing, and hope.
This month, and every month, we stand with you. Let’s keep the conversation going, and let’s keep choosing life—together.
About Dr. Atur Turakhia:
Atur Turakhia, M.D. is a physician who has Board-Certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both general Psychiatry as well as with subspecialty Board Certification in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. His role in the OC Health Care Agency and, more specifically, in Behavioral Health Services, is as the Associate Medical Director for Children and Youth Services. Not only has he been recognized by peers in his region as a 3-time Physician of Excellence, he is also an experienced leader, educator, collaborator, mentor, and team-builder.
