Helping A Loved One Struggling With Depression.

posted in Family & Kids on 3/23/2014

One year ago my baby sister tried to commit suicide.. It is a hard thing to handle, seeing someone you love go through such pain, so I just want to give a few tips to people in the same situation as my family. I hope our story helps you in some way.

This is me and my little sister just over a year ago. Before I give tips I want to explain our story a little. My little sister has been heavier set and had skin problems, and glasses her whole life. Around 8th grade she started cutting. It started out small, just a few hidden cuts.

But as you can see from the first picture, that progressed. scars now cover over 90% of her arms, legs and stomach. She hated the way she looked, she took in others problems, and her 9th grade year, my best friend, a brother figure to her, commit suicide and that was the final straw for her.

She began to isolated herself to keep people from noticing what was going on, she starved herself to get the weight off, and she cut over and over and over again. Until one day she tried to take her life. It is a blessing that she is still with us today .

After something like that, it brings to light how easily something or someone you care so much about could be gone in the blink of an eye

Helping A Loved One Struggling With Depression.

We are so blessed to have her still with us. But it is always an uphill battle, so here are some things to help you with your journey...

1. Understand it's not easy. 2. Don't blame your self. If you go down that road you will never come back. 3. Watch for small signs that show they are ready to talk. For my little sister it is asking me to do her hair. 4. Don't be afraid to check up on it. Check for new cuts.

5. Check with friends, they will know best if there has been a change you should worry about. 6. Give them something healthy to focus on. Writing, reading, art, a sport, anything that will be a healthy focus in their life. 7. Know your stuff.

Anti self harm awareness: 1. Semi colon: the idea that you can take a pause instead of ending your life 2 butterfly: proof that something beautiful comes from something ugly.