Everyday, people of all ages, especially children face the very real feeling of being alone. To honor those struggling with what's going on in their world, I created a compilation of things I've seen, heard, and experienced myself. Anxiety, stress and depression does not discriminate between age, sex, race, religion or color. Maybe a glimpse into this world can create an opportunity to offer the kindness available to everyone; if we just choose it. What if these are the words of someone you know?
The Hallway
Don’t look at me. Don’t look at me. Don’t look at me.
Be invisible. Get to class on time.
I can’t be late.
Again.
It’s the second week of school and I already have four tardy slips.
My teacher hates me. I hate me.
If I don’t turn in my three missing assignments today, she’ll inform my mom.
I did them, I just forgot to turn them in.
My dad will be angry and yell at me again. Always disappointed.
My mom doesn’t care about my reason when there is no trust.
I’m supposed to be responsible, remember?
How can I be responsible when I have no idea who I am?
I can’t breathe. I want to disappear.
Too many students. Too close to me.
Need air. Need space. Need friends.
Need...something to make it go away.
There goes the warning bell.
Please let me get to class on time and not lose it.
Turn left. Avoid the Mean Ones.
Oh no, oh no, oh no - there’s my X staring at me.
Our, err, his friends are snickering.
Is there something wrong with me? What did I do?
Oh yes, I exist.
Now I really can’t breathe.
I’m gonna pass out.
Make it go away.
Right, look down at your phone. As if (!) there’s a text coming in.
Keep walking. Be invisible.
I’m shaking. I want to throw up. I’m going to cry.
No. No. No. No. Dammit – don’t cry, Stupid Baby.
I’m so useless.
I can’t even walk myself to class.
I can’t remember to turn in my work.
My body can’t stop shaking.
My mind is whirling with the same lame loop.
Make it go away. Make it go away.
Make me go away.
OK! I hear myself say.
I can do THAT.
If you or someone you know is feeling any of these things, ask for help. You are not alone. Please reach out for support. The National Suicide Hotline is anonymous. 1-800-273-8255
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