RAE AMITAY Of IMMORTAL BIRD / THRAWSUNBLAT In Support Of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month – "You Are Absolutely Irreplaceable On This Earth"

Rae Amitay, the voice of Immortal Bird and drummer of Thrawsunblat has shared a very important message via Facebook:

“It’s Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. I know we all have a friend (or several) that we worry about constantly, who often shuts us out, or can be difficult to reach, and is often/always struggling. It can be exhausting to maintain those friendships especially when your efforts seem disregarded. I’ve been that concerned friend, and I’ve been the person people are afraid of losing. Things are not as dark as they used to be, but I can say that without the little check-ins and the small acts of kindness I was fortunate enough to receive, I would not be here now. I am so glad that I stayed. There is so much beauty and so many people (and animals) I don’t want to leave behind.

My point is, there’s no right answer and no foolproof way to ‘save’ somebody you love. The world is a brutal place and can be absolutely relentless. I think it’s just important to keep loving, supporting, and being good to each other. I thought I’d have more time with the friends I’ve lost. I will always have to wonder what could have happened if I’d said, ‘Hey, I haven’t heard from you in awhile. How are you? I would love to see you.’ I don’t want to add any more regrets like that to the list that constantly runs through my head.

If you’re having suicidal thoughts, or just feeling incredibly low, you aren’t weak, it’s a goddamn psychiatric emergency. You aren’t alone, and regardless of the reasons behind your feelings (chemical, circumstantial, or both), you are absolutely irreplaceable on this earth and there are people who can help you. I have called this number. It made a difference. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).”