A Lesson in Hope: The Importance of Support and Understanding

In a LinkedIn Post, Gibson, a Landscape Architect, Educator, and Director at Olive School in Kitengela, shared a powerful message about a topic that is often hard to talk about—suicide. He explained that by the time someone starts thinking about ending their life, they have already gone through many emotions and thoughts, trying to find a way out. However, in their mind, nothing seems to help, and they may feel as though they cannot continue. Often, the idea of disappointing or failing their loved ones becomes one of the strongest feelings pushing them towards making such a drastic decision.

Gibson, who also works as a Senior Architecture Lecturer and Director at Treetower Landscapes, spoke from a place of understanding and compassion. He highlighted that people who are struggling with thoughts of suicide are usually going through intense inner battles. They often feel trapped in their situations, believing that no matter what they do, nothing will ever improve. For many, the idea of causing their family or friends pain by taking their own life becomes an unbearable weight. This is why it’s so important to be aware of the signs of someone who might be struggling and to offer them the support and understanding they need before they reach this point.

Gibson’s post reminded everyone that when someone feels like giving up, they are not just thinking about their own pain. They are also thinking about the people they love and the burden they might place on them. The feeling of failure, especially when it comes to loved ones, can make things feel hopeless. Gibson shared that this is one of the reasons why people who are suicidal often don’t reach out for help. They may feel like they are already a disappointment and don't want to add to the pain of their family and friends.

But what Gibson emphasized the most was the importance of hope. He pointed out that there are always opportunities to improve one's situation, even if they can't see it in the moment. He believes that there is no situation so bad that it can't be turned around with the right kind of support, understanding, and time. This message of hope is especially important for those who feel trapped in their circumstances. Sometimes, all it takes is a single conversation, a gesture of kindness, or a show of support to help someone see a way forward.

In his post, Gibson also explained that understanding the signs of someone struggling with mental health is crucial. Often, people who are feeling suicidal may not express their pain in obvious ways. They might withdraw from their friends and family, become quiet, or stop taking care of themselves. They might say things like "I don't think I can do this anymore" or "It would be better if I wasn't around." These are not just random thoughts; they are cries for help. People in pain might not know how to ask for help, but they often leave clues that others can pick up on if they are paying attention.

For Gibson, this message is not just about raising awareness; it’s also about making sure that those who are struggling with thoughts of suicide know that they are not alone. He believes that by sharing stories, offering a listening ear, and showing kindness, the burden of feeling alone in one’s struggles can be lifted. It is not always easy, but being there for someone who is suffering, even if you don't have all the answers, can make all the difference in the world.

Gibson’s words served as a reminder that mental health should never be taken for granted. Just as we take care of our physical health, we must also care for our emotional and mental well-being. People are often too quick to hide their struggles, thinking that they should be able to handle everything on their own. But Gibson’s message is clear—no one has to face their battles alone. With the right support, understanding, and resources, anyone who is feeling hopeless can find the strength to keep going.

The key takeaway from Gibson’s post is the importance of empathy. It is not enough to simply acknowledge that someone might be struggling; we must actively listen to them, offer support, and encourage them to seek help when needed. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and those who are suffering should never feel ashamed to ask for help.

As the post concluded, Gibson left a powerful reminder for all of us. When we see someone in pain, it is our duty to reach out and offer a helping hand. If we notice a friend or family member withdrawing from the world, we should be the ones to step in and ask how they are doing. If we feel that someone is carrying a heavy burden, we should offer to listen, without judgment, and let them know that their feelings are valid.

Gibson’s story serves as a lesson in the importance of not waiting until it is too late. It teaches us that the smallest act of kindness can have the biggest impact. Whether it is listening, offering a shoulder to lean on, or simply being there, our actions can provide the hope someone needs to keep moving forward. In a world where mental health struggles are often hidden behind closed doors, it is up to all of us to create an environment where people feel safe enough to share their struggles and seek help before they reach the point of feeling that suicide is their only option.

By understanding the signs, offering support, and practising empathy, we can make the world a more compassionate and caring place for those who are struggling with their mental health. Let’s not wait for someone to reach the point of no return—let’s take action now and offer the love and care that can save a life.

#alwaysonthelookout #linkedin