In the wake of tragedy, we can’t help but ask ourselves why. Why would someone end their own life?  I have always felt that the only answer is that the pain was too much.  I have heard people call suicide, “The coward’s way out.”  This is a cruel and uncaring way to look at suicide.  No human being in the depths of depression is a coward.  

I have depression and anxiety.  I have had thoughts of suicide, but I have never had a plan or let the pain I feel bring me to harm myself.  My “lack of follow through” does not make me brave.  My knowing I could never leave my son alone doesn’t make me better than anyone else who is in pain.  

As much as my depression sometimes makes me struggle to be positive, people who suffer with a debilitating form of depression  know pain I have never experienced.  Naomi Judd knew the extreme pain.  Ms. Judd worked very hard to keep her pain at bay, but, in the end, it was stronger.  Her family and friends tried to help; they made her feel loved.  In the end, the disease was so much more powerful.

I was so impressed by her daughters’ love and devotion to their mother.  Ashley and Wynonna were brave to speak out so soon after their beloved mother’s death.  The more family and friends speak out about suicide, the more understanding and empathy the public will have toward those who are suffering.  

I think we all need to remember that strong women hurt too. Please know that you are not alone and that help is available to you. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 800-273-8255. It is a free and confidential service and available 24/7. You are not alone, and there is always someone available to help.