Unfortunately, suicide is something that everyone has been affected by in one way or another, and I am no exception. I have had several experiences with suicide, through peers, close family members, and friends of mine. But one loss that hit incredibly close to home was that of a dear friend I had grown up with. When I heard about my childhood friend, Matthew, who left school midday to jump off the local bridge, I was devastated. The sudden and unexpected nature of his death was a huge wake-up call. Directly after I heard the news, I remember thinking that I never would have expected this for him. I never knew that he was struggling and thought that maybe if I did, things would have turned out differently. I recognize that I am not to blame for his suicide, but this reminded me that I need to take notice of the mental status of those I hold close. It is exceptionally important to love, support, and care for those around me while I still have the chance, and this news reinforced that in me. You never know what someone is going through, and you never know what could make or break them. Something as simple as an open conversation could be enough to help them choose to stay. Although Matthew and I hadn't talked recently at the time of his death, I still wish that I had let him know that I was there for him, and how much I cared for and was supporting him, even from a distance. I wish I had been there for Matthew in the way he needed, but I can make an effort to be that person for someone else who's struggling. Someone to support those around me, to try to help them understand their value, and to do my best to keep them off that ledge.