A Message from Ariel - American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Hello beautiful beings,

For those of you who have been following my mental health journey with the AFSP (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention); Hello again!

As for the first-timers on my AFSP page, my name is Ariel Carreras and I welcome you all to spend the next few minutes of your time to take in the importance of mental health awareness. reading my message :)

Entering my 4th year with AFSP, I have come to a new place of clarity, an open mind to many more perspectives, and a loving heart that overflows with compassion not only with others - but with myself. This year has been more of me reconciling the inner work that I have built and healing for myself. The visions that I have for the future aren't just a painted picture of what I want for myself, but the society that surrounds me. I live my days making conscious efforts to advocate for the youth communities that need resources for mental health the most. Up to this point, I have made progress towards my mission of striving to help others around me in hopes to create a better future.

Throughout the years, From adolescence to adulthood, I have endured and pivoted through my struggles and trauma. In the midst of me learning from and about myself, I have seen people close to me go through tough challenges as well. With the interactions that I am blessed to have experienced, I have learned and helped the people that I care about with their mental lows. Few relationships that I’ve acquired within my 23 years on this planet have renounced while others have used my shoulder to lean on, dust their shoulders and honor the days that are theirs to claim. Being present for others as an aid of support is so significant to me because it makes all of the difference and most importantly - it makes the world a bit of a happier place to be in.

It’s the year 2022 and each year is a transition to the new “norm”, especially after the peak of the pandemic. Societal, political, economical, social, and even psychological changes can be so much especially if you are/feel alone and unsupported. Making it through the world’s feeling of isolation and disconnection is an accomplishment itself. Returning to normal routines and goal setting can bring comfort but it can also cause panic when the joys of having someone in your corner isn’t present.

Now more than ever, the accessibility to the knowledge of mindfulness and self-care has become more common. This is just half of the work. Putting things into practice is a real chore and takes a lot of discipline. Over time the practice of taking care of your mental wellbeing can tremendously improve life and the lives around you.

This foundation, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, raises funds to support individuals, friends, and family affected by suicide. Also, raising funds helps laws and literature to best support the people in the workplace, in schools, and their daily lives. Money isn't the only way AFSP and yourself can make a difference. Opening the door to conversations around suicide creates a safe space for your community.

I am joining hundreds of thousands of people across the country who are walking in the Out of the Darkness Community Walks to prevent suicide and support AFSP's mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read what I am sharing with you. I hope this can start a chain of kindness and motivate you to start conversations of your own with peers on mental health and/or suicide prevention.

- Ariel

https://supporting.afsp.org/participant/2569719