Lucid Thoughts: Mind Games

So much has been placed on things being taboo. Mental health, especially in the minority community has always been looked down upon heavily. Growing up as a person of color, in a catholic household, it was even frowned upon even heavier. Feelings weren’t allowed to be discussed. Tears were a sign of weakness. To show emotion, meant you were insignificant, your voice was almost never heard. 

The year is 2020 and here we still strive & struggle to “normalize” any kind of emotion. To have these conversations from a non judgmental point of view, would be ideal. Unfortunately it’s not.

The reality is that fear, is the defining factor that keeps it from happening. Fear of facing ones reality or even that of another. Everyone at some point has been affected by the acts, thoughts, or repercussions of suicide. Some have even suffered, dealt with and survived those moments. There are those who are no longer with us because of it. Reasons we can only imagine as to why, sometimes it still plagues us. 

The constant wonder of:

What could’ve I done to help? I should’ve seen the signs. 

We unconsciously become the victim instead. Choosing not to accept that reality is what has kept this conversation from growing further or reaching those that need it most. The lack of accessibility, whether it be not able to afford a therapist. Nor being able to speak freely amongst family or friends. Needing a safe haven, where we are allowed to just be ourselves, without fear.

“It’s too heavy. That’s a lot to deal with. Now is not the time to bring that up.”

Things I’ve heard oh so many times. Moments that have made me ask myself, and even at times out loud to others: So when is the right time? We can’t sit here pushing others to ‘live in their truth’, to then turn our heads away from the harsh truths that come along with it.

So how much of what you’ve done or have been doing, has affected your circle in an uplifting light? Your choice for escapism could be someone else’s destabilization. During a time where we are trying to find our ways through this strange way of life. Being aware of what and how you do things, goes a long way.

Take time to understand. Everyone right now is finding their way through it all. Assuming or making judgment based on your views through a pre-COVID/quarantine lense are just that. Dated. A foggy, misdirection, to a shore that has long been deserted since the beginning of 2020. 

A state of the world that no longer exists. 

So ask yourself, what am doing now, differently, to find my way in this so called New Normal? Who is coming with me and how will I ensure not only they feel safe for this ride into the unknown, but that they are valued as well, for who they are. 

Be each others life preservers, don’t hand over an anchor and assume they’ll be fine. 

Lucid Omnijack

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):

1-800-950-6264

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:

1-800-273-8255

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):

1-800-662-4357