Trigger Warning: suicide

I have agonized a little about sharing this poem. It’s been on my mind quite a bit, especially with the recent celebrity suicides dominating the news headlines. Dark, suicidal poems can trigger someone, and I would never want to do that, but writing poems about ending it all if part of my bipolar journey. This poem is dark, so it may not be the best read for everyone, especially if you are already feeling down and depressed.

However, my number one purpose in starting this blog was to help start the conversation about mental illness. It’s a sad fact, but suicidal thoughts are a huge part of many of these disorders. Even when they don’t talk about it, many mental illness warriors deal with these thoughts every day.

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In addition, it is important to me that I open up about my story. How can I expect others to open up if I am not willing to do the same? This is part of me opening up.

While this poem was written while I was at my lowest, I am living proof that you can survive, and in fact thrive, after reaching rock bottom. Sometimes you just need a little inspiration to get you back on your feet as I write about in my How To Get Back on Your Feet post.

At the time I wrote this poem, I truly planned to end my life later that night. I am so thankful I didn’t.

IMPORTANT: Suicide is never the right choice or the best option. IT IS ALWAYS A MISTAKE. If you or a loved one are dealing with thoughts of suicide, get help immediately.

Even though right now you may feel like you have no one to turn to, there is always help available. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Phone Number 1-800-273-8255 in the United States or a similar organization in your country. More numbers and resources are listed in the post Make a Contract With Yourself to Keep Living.

Trained professionals can help you to get through the darkness. If you have trouble finding a number, contact the emergency services number for your home area.

Remember, it does get better. Never give up.

The End

Pounding, screaming this constant noise
No more control nor need for ploys

Inner turmoil with such unrest
After the years all lived in jest

So much alone yet still so near
No real comfort from inner fear

No place in life in which to hold
No real diff’rence as one grows old

The mind cannot help comprehend
The mouth cannot inform a friend

Though set aflame eyes seldom cry
Living a life that’s just a lie

Fear of future, past and present
Loss of solace days poorly spent

The face a mask a poor façade
Spoil the sad child and spare the rod

A scream that is locked deep inside
A plea for help held in by pride

Not the person once thought to be
Falling apart now lost at sea

Set long adrift the course unknown
Time depleted no days to loan

And soon he’ll sleep and never wake
As it is time his life to take

– March 18, 1995

As you can see, this poem was written over 20 years ago. I made the right choice and chose to keep living. Suicidal thoughts, quotes, and poems are where my mind goes on the dark days, but I always fight my way back out. You should, too.

The sun always rises. If you are dealing with the darkest night right now, hold on. The sun is coming. You don’t want to miss it.

If you connect with this poem, please share it with others.

Until next time, keep fighting.