S. A. Crow

Sep 115 min read

Finding Light in the Darkness: A Message for Authors During Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to reflect on the importance of mental health, offer support, and remind each other that we are never truly alone. As writers, many of us face battles that often go unseen by the outside world or our readers. We wrestle with imposter syndrome, money troubles, and the constant sense of isolation that can seep into our creative process. These struggles can make it hard to see the beauty around ourselves and in our words.

I often find solace in music. The song that comes to mind when I thought about Suicide Prevention Month was immediately "Youtiful" by Stray Kids. Stray Kids a 4th generation K-Pop band out of South Korea is my favorite dopamine hit. The lyrics remind us that even in our lowest moments, we are still worthy of love, kindness, and connection. The song carries a powerful message: no matter how broken or lost we may feel, there is beauty in our existence. Sometimes, just hearing "you're beautiful the way you are" can make all the difference.

Youtiful- Stray Kids

[Verse 1: Bang Chan, Hyunjin]

Lookin' at yourself

A lot goes in your mind

"I don't know if I'm ready to show myself"

You worry day and night

Look at the stars fall

They leave the sky, goodbye

Must be an oracle, like a waterfall

They shower you with love tonight

[Pre-Chorus: Lee Know, Felix, Changbin, Han]

'Cause you are

You're perfect in my eyes

You are

Don't ever doubt yourself

(You are) I know that feeling too, I've been inside the dark

I've never been so empty, hopeless

(You are) But no, it isn't true

'Cause know that all the stars are by your side

[Chorus: Seungmin, Lee Know, I.N]

You know whenever there's a chance

I'll tell you that you're amazing as you are

'Cause when you give me a glance

I'm sure that I see the universe in your eyes

Don't you ever tell yourself that you're not enough

I am certain that you're truly fine

You are a miracle, miracle

You are youtiful

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[Verse 2: Hyunjin, Felix, I.N]

Let me tell a little story

About the star that couldn't shine or blink

Out of a million, billion

Felt like an alien, alien

Then that little star was surely

Going to become the biggest thing

Making a fantasy family

Beautiful galaxy, galaxy

[Pre-Chorus: Seungmin, Changbin, Lee Know]

'Cause you are

More than beautiful, one of a kind

You are

Just know I'm always by your side

[Chorus: Bang Chan, I.N, Changbin]

You know whenever there's a chance

I'll tell you that you're amazing as you are

'Cause when you give me a glance

I'm sure that I see the universe in your eyes

Don't you ever tell yourself that you're not enough

I am certain that you're truly fine

You are a miracle, miracle

You are youtiful

[Bridge: Felix, Seungmin]

Another day ahead, don't wanna leave the bed

You're looking at the mirror, see the tears covered in red

I know that you've been cold this whole time

But now I'm here to make it end

[Chorus: Han, Changbin, Hyunjin, (Seungmin, I.N, Lee Know)]

You know whenever there's a chance

I'll tell you that you're amazing as you are (Amazing as you are)

'Cause when you give me a glance

I'm sure that I see the universe in your eyes (Universe in your eyes)

Don't you ever tell yourself that you're not enough

I am certain that you're truly fine (Certain that you're truly fine)

You are a miracle, miracle

You are youtiful

lyrics provided by Genius genius.com/Stray-kids-youtiful-lyrics

For authors, the struggle is often internal. Imposter syndrome sneaks up after a rejection, lack of sales, a negative review, or even on a day when the words just won't flow. Financial stress adds another layer of pressure. We pour our hearts into our craft, like a painter with words, but it doesn't always come with the financial rewards we need to keep going. And then there's the isolation. Writing is often a solitary activity, and it's easy to feel like we're floating alone in a sea of words.

Joining supportive writing groups can help with imposter syndrome and the feelings of isolation.

But amidst the chaos, there are moments of light--small, weird things that bring us joy. maybe it's the smell of brewing coffee as you settle in for a writing session, the way your pet curls up next to you as you type, the thrill of finding the perfect word or phrase for that tricky part. These little things may seem insignificant to others, but they might be the only things keeping the darkness at bay.

My little weird things that keep the darkness at bay:

My dogs
Stray Kids
BL stories and actors
Music
my squishy plushies
checking things off my to do list
a warm mug of tea
dancing around the house
My writing group

Share with us what little weird things help you get up out of bed and face the day.

Remember, it's okay to ask for help. You are not alone in this journey. Reach out to fellow authors, friends, and family when the weight of it all feels too much. Don't forget to celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Try a done list instead of a to do list. If you're struggling, reach out. If you are doing well reach out to your friends and check on them. If you're feeling alone, listen to a song that lifts you up, take a walk, or find a small joy to hold onto. The world needs your words, your voice, and your unique spark.

You don’t have to go through this alone. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or severe depression, please reach out to one of the following resources:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): Call 988 or 1-800-273-8255 (Available 24/7) Visit: suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Crisis Text Line (USA): Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential support via text.
The Trevor Project (For LGBTQ+ youth, USA): Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678.Visit: thetrevorproject.org
Samaritans (UK and Ireland): Call 116 123 (Free and available 24/7) Visit: samaritans.org
Lifeline (Australia): Call 13 11 14Visit: lifeline.org.au
International Suicide Prevention Resource Directory: Find helplines worldwide at iasp.info