"A PEACEFUL ESCAPE"

(originally posted 01.26.2020)

TRIGGER WARNING: Suicidal Thoughts

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. It is a time to pause, reach out, and check in on our friends, family, and even ourselves. This month serves as a reminder to be more sensitive to the struggles others may be carrying, to listen with compassion, to respond with kindness, and to remember that not every cry for help is spoken out loud.

Every story matters. Every struggle is valid. And every life is worth holding on to. 💛 Let’s remind one another that hope is real, and help is always within reach.

In line with this, I want to share a raw glimpse into a night back in 2020 when I almost gave up. I’m not sharing this for sympathy, but to show how heavy these thoughts can feel—and why awareness, understanding, and compassion truly matter.

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As I stand in the middle, overlooking the busiest road of my hometown - I suddenly felt the cool breeze that surrounded me. The many rows of red lights that seems so endless, flickering, moving, enticing. I didn't seem to mind the few people who pass by. For a moment, silence overpowered me and nothing seems to disturb me. I felt the tranquility and the freedom for a short while. And as I look down, for once I didn't feel any fear. It's like something in my mind is telling me that it's ok. That there will be no consequences. And everything will be alright. I have to admit, at that point I wish that the peace and calmness that I met would last longer. Because at that point, there are no racing thoughts. No sadness. No tears. I smiled. Then, I slowly lift my hands, palms facing downwards as if I was preparing to fly. I took a quick glance at the cars below me, close my eyes and breathe slowly and deeply... I hold on to the railings and contemplate once more. Should I do it? Or not? Would I rather stay and shackled in my thoughts or finally taste the freedom to the abyss of nothingness? Maybe not tonight. But someday... Yes, Someday...

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Note: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger—having suicidal thoughts or in a mental health crisis—don’t hesitate to call any of these hotlines right away. Help also available via messaging or social media for some services.

24/7 Crisis & Suicide Prevention Hotlines (Metro Manila)

Service	Contact Numbers
NCMH Crisis Hotline	0917-899-8727 (mobile) / (02) 8989-8727 (landline)
HOPELINE	2919 (Globe/TM toll-free), 0917-558-4673 (Globe), 0918-873-4673 (Smart), (02) 8804-4673
In Touch Crisis Line	(02) 893-7603, 0917-800-1123 (Globe), 0922-893-8944 (Sun)
Manila Lifeline Centre	(02) 896-9191 / 0917-854-9191
Dial-A-Friend	(02) 8525-1743 / 8525-1881
PGH Psychiatry Dept.	(02) 554-8400 loc. 2436/2440; (02) 8554-88470; 526-0150; 554-8469

#SuicidePreventionMonth #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #MentalHealthAwareness #YouAreNotAlone #EndTheStigma #ItsOkayToNotBeOkay #YourStoryMatters #HopeIsReal #ChooseToStay #BreakTheSilence #MentalHealthSupport #HealingJourney #CheckOnYourFriends