What Suffering Reveals: A Deeper Look at What Truly Matters
- theymatter4
- Jul 22
- 3 min read
What Suffering Reveals — And Why It Matters for Suicide Prevention
“Sometimes suffering removes what we thought truly mattered to reveal to us what truly matters.”
Read that again.
We build our lives around things we think matter — career milestones, approval, image, routine. And for a while, these things work. They help us feel safe, anchored, “in control.” But then suffering shows up — in the form of loss, trauma, mental illness, loneliness — and it begins to strip everything away.
And when that happens, many people feel like there’s nothing left. That’s often the moment people consider ending their lives — not because they want to die, but because they can’t see a way forward with the pain.
But here’s the thing: sometimes, in the wake of that pain, something deeper begins to emerge. The noise fades, and we start to notice what truly matters — love, connection, presence, truth, hope. These things don’t always shout. They’re often quiet. But they’re real. And they’re powerful.
This is where suicide prevention lives: not just in hotlines and crisis protocols (though those are essential), but in the quiet, everyday choices we make to show up for one another.
Why This Matters for Suicide Prevention
When someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts, they often feel invisible, hopeless, or like they’re a burden. They might believe no one could understand, or that there’s no help available for them. It's not always a cry for attention. Often, it’s a cry for connection. For relief. For someone to say, “You matter. Stay.”
So, what can we do?
Here’s the truth: we don't have to be therapists or experts to make a difference. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can offer is our time, our attention, and our willingness to be there without fixing.
I once sat on the phone with someone for five hours. We didn’t even talk about their pain directly. We just stayed connected. We talked about movies. Childhood memories. Laughed a little. Sat in silence. And you know what? It helped. Not because I said the perfect thing — but because they weren’t alone with their thoughts. They didn’t have the space to spiral further into darkness. For a few hours, they had a companion in the storm.
That can be life-saving.
What We Can Do — As a Community
Listen Without Judgment. Sometimes people need to talk without fear of being “fixed.” Just let them speak. Be curious. Be present.
Reach Out, Even If It's Awkward. If someone crosses your mind, message them. Call them. Stop by. Don’t wait until you “know what to say.” Your presence matters more than your words.
Offer Time, Not Just Advice. Sit with them. Talk about anything. Watch a show. Play a game. Go for a walk. It’s not about distracting them from life — it’s about showing them that life still has moments worth staying for.
Normalize the Conversation. Talk openly about mental health. Let others know it’s okay to not be okay — and that struggling doesn't make them broken.
Know the Resources. Keep numbers handy. Share them. Encourage therapy, support groups, or community programs. But remember — your connection might be what helps them get there in the first place.
If You’re the One Struggling
Please know this: you are not weak for feeling pain. You are not broken. And you are not alone.
The world can feel unbearably dark sometimes. But that darkness is not the end of your story.
Sometimes, what you’re losing is not your life — it’s the illusion of what you thought mattered. And in its place, something new can grow: real connection, real healing, and the realization that your life still has value.
Even if you can’t see that yet — please stay.
You matter.
You are loved.
There is help. There is hope. And we still need you here.
Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is meant for informational and supportive purposes only. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or emergency services right away. You are not alone, and help is available.
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