Mental health is a serious issue

And then there were four.

I grew up in a family of five children. We lived, laughed and loved. I was the youngest of five. I had a sister just a bit older, twin sisters, and our brother the oldest. We always had someone to play with, cry with, talk to and love.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Five years ago our five became four. My sister, Renee, found herself in a dark place dealing with depression. She was a beautiful person inside and out. Everyone who crossed her path knew she was a beautiful soul. Renee's battle with depression left her without the ability to cope with life any longer. She took her own life. When we lost our beautiful soul it was realized how difficult mental health is. This also took a piece our hearts and souls.

Mental health is real. It does not discriminate, yet it is very difficult for many to understand. Although we tried very hard to help our sister, our story did not end in a happy place. It has forever changed our lives.

It is important to end the silence and stigma surrounding all mental health. It is important to know that unless you have lived it, know someone who has, then you should take the time to understand.

If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, please call 1-800-273-8255 or text TALK to 741741. (afsp.org)

MICHELLE SCHWETTMAN, Scott City