Belonging

There are many among our midst who are battling a silent killer. This "killer" is ruthless, merciless and has sunk its ugly claws in the minds and souls of a growing population. It is a glaring reality for our society. What I speak of is that spirit of loneliness.

Many who are struggling with depression and suicide ideation are really struggling with one thing: a deep desire of belonging. It's a battle. Being a part of a family, a community, a fellowship invigorates the soul. It speaks to our need for brotherhood or sisterhood. It's that deep seeded need that we matter to someone and, most importantly, that someone or that fellowship has our back.

There is a loneliness epidemic in our country. Last year, a report was released by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that was titled, "Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation." In this report, it warned of how isolation and loneliness leads to shattering physical health effects to include an increased risk of heart disease (a broken heart), increased risk of stroke and a staggering 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults.

The most heart-wrenching consequence for those in this struggle is their higher susceptibility to end it all. Many may look okay on the outside and may even participate in groups and crowds. But deep down there is an emptiness and that cavern just grows deeper and darker by the day. Without deep bonds with those who accept us and love us, we will collapse under the crushing weight of rejection and sadness.

The truth is acceptance is our deepest human need. There is something about belonging that just fills our hearts.

Once a dear friend of mine shared this compelling characteristic about one person in his life. It was powerful and captured the essence of his longing. He simply said, "she's in my corner." This Marine brother of mine is one of my closest friends and suffered a lot of hardships. Like many, his heartache and pain continues to remind him of feeling lost, broken and alone. His hope was that he would know love and acceptance in the most penetrating way -- to help carry him for the rest of his days. (And there is ONE - only One - who is that Hope and more).

But what are we to do? What can we do? What is our responsibility?

Let us first know the light that is inside of us all that we can offer. We cannot ignore some of the warning signs of those who are in this battle and who may be isolating or walling themselves off from relationships. I think we can all identify perhaps that one person in our lives who has this struggle. I did at one time. I struggled in the battle. And I thank God, the ONE, for brothers who pressed in and stepped into a conversation. What they offered was simple: their time.

Making time for someone can be the most important thing we can do in our lifetime. When we think of all the time we waste, especially these days with technology, it is sad to consider the investments we have lost. People matter more than any game, team, agenda, political party, career ambition, or event. When we step into lifting others for their benefit, for their survival, it does something to us. It gives us a perspective that we need to hold in our hearts and remember.

We need to remember that we are not alone. We were made for relationship. We need each other. We were created for a purpose and we can be a part of building up that community and fellowship that stands side-by-side and says "I am with you, no matter what."

During this Suicide Prevention Month, let us make time for someone we may know of who may be in this fight against this silent killer. Let us step out of our comfort zones, reach out and invest for the sake of saving lives and standing against loneliness.

God bless and may God help those who are longing to belong.

#suicideprevention #nevergiveup American Counseling Association #makethecall