I’m sure that everyone’s heard someone say, or have said it themselves: “Oh my gosh, I just want to kill myself.”

Usually, this is said when a lot of work must be done, or during a different stressful experience. However, most of the time it isn’t meant.

I feel that part of the reason people are not taken seriously about suicide, when they need to be taken seriously, is because of this.

As someone who has previously experienced suicidal thoughts, I can say that it was only because one person took what I said seriously that I’m still here today.

One person, out of seven or eight, that I considered to be my close friends.

Everyone else just thought that I was joking, or didn’t pay attention. Later, I was diagnosed with depression because I had been experiencing negative thoughts like this.

I’ve also lost high school classmates to suicide. It’s made me think about how mental health may not be taken as seriously as it should be.

Not everyone with depression experiences the same exact feelings and symptoms that I did.

Those who may be uncertain about if they are depressed should, at the very least, look up what they’ve been feeling on the internet.

I know, the internet doesn’t always tell the truth, but what you do find may be able to help you spark a conversation with friends and loved ones about what you’ve been going through.

If you feel like you can’t talk to friends or family about this subject, or even if you can, go see a professional.

At Southwest Minnesota State University, we do have the Counseling and Testing Center, which is located in BA 156. They can be contacted through email, phone, or by stopping at the office and making an appointment in person.

If the matter is more urgent and someone you know—or even yourself—is more serious about committing suicide, calling the suicide hotline or emergency services is recommended. The number varies across the country but it’s easy to look up online.

For those who do not enjoy talking on the phone, the hotline can also be texted. Texting the word ‘connect’ to 741741 will connect you to a Crisis Counselor. Visiting their website at crisistextline.org will give you more information.