The winter months can be very cold and dreary. Persons with depression can be affected by the lack of sunlight and find themselves feeling even more despondent. If you find yourself in this situation you could potentially turn to drugs or alcohol to lift your mood. Unfortunately, this could easily progress to thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Suicidal thoughts or urges are red flags that you are in trouble. Even though you may feel apathetic, this is the time to reach out for help from a counselor, pastor or friend. You may feel that you are totally alone and no one cares, but trust me, someone does. Staying isolated and alone could very well worsen things in your life.

In Elkhart County, we had 15 deaths by suicide in 2012. This number is down from 2011, when we had 23, but we must remain vigilant. If you or a loved one are suffering from depression, please fight becoming one of these statistics. You can call 211 for crisis resources or 911 if you need immediate help.

Depression can get better with medication and counseling to help change your thoughts and feelings towards yourself and the world. It takes courage to open up and trust someone else, but in the end it can be well worth the effort.

Katharine Schrock

Elkhart County Suicide Prevention Coalition