I Hate September

Ugh.

You wouldn’t think I would, especially since my wedding anniversary is in September. It is also the month North America transitions into my favorite season, revealing the perfect weather.

But now I hate it. September is National Suicide Prevention Month. And this September, a loved family member of mine ended his life. So as I was deep in my grief, the memes and posts whirled around me . . . “We can all prevent suicide!”

When you are trying to make sense of the senseless, the last thing you want to hear is that there was something you could have, should have done. I hate September.

This is the part where I am supposed to make a connection between Social Emotional Learning and mental health supports. This is a professional blog, and that is the work I do. The research is there. It writes itself. But I don’t want to. I want to talk about him.

Elliott was kind. He was generous and intelligent with a big, gorgeous smile and a bigger heart. He gave the perfect hugs. And never parted without saying “I love you!”. He was the sorest of losers, and beating him in a board game was so much fun because he would pout forever. Elliott brought joy to every occasion. And I miss him deeply.

I am sad. And I will be sad for a while. That is okay. Being honest about how we feel is always a step towards healing. I look forward to when I can think about Elliott and smile. Hopefully by next September.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Hours: Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish. Call 800-273-8255