Life is Worth Living
Carry one another's burdens and stay present with people who are hurting.
Theme: Life is Worth Living
Verse: "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)
At my workplace on MacDill AFB, we lost a colleague a couple of weeks ago in one of the cruelest ways imaginable: suicide. As we've worked through the grieving process together, I've spent time reflecting on how to talk about it in this space. When my devotional reading this week focused on depression in athletes, it felt like a clear nudge that this was the time to share.
One of my favorite movies is It's a Wonderful Life. For me, it belongs on the Mount Rushmore of great films. If you haven't seen it, you really should make time for it, whether during the Christmas season or sooner. At its core, the story explores personal depression and how the main character struggles to cope with it. That theme is just as relevant today as it was when the movie was made.
Depression is a real and devastating condition. Statistics show that a significant number of current and former military members die by suicide each day, a staggering and sobering reality. But this is not just a military issue. Athletes, especially young ones, are also vulnerable. The pressure to perform can weigh heavily on shoulders that may not yet be emotionally equipped to carry it.
As parents, coaches, mentors, and friends, we need to be aware of the warning signs and, more importantly, be ready to act when we see them.
Common warning signs include:
Verbal cues: statements expressing hopelessness, worthlessness, or feeling like a burden.
Behavioral changes: social withdrawal, giving away possessions, saying goodbye to loved ones, or even a sudden, unexpected improvement in mood after a period of despair.
Emotional changes: anxiety, irritability, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed.
Substance misuse: increased use of alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism.
Impulsive or risky behavior: engaging in dangerous activities or self-harm.
So what should we do when we notice these signs?
Listen and validate: do not dismiss or judge. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know they are heard. Feeling understood can be a powerful first step toward healing.
Offer emotional support: you do not need to be a professional to show compassion, patience, and encouragement.
Encourage professional help: gently suggest seeking support from a counselor or therapist. Sharing your own experiences, if appropriate, can help reduce stigma.
Create a safety plan: help them identify warning signs, coping strategies, trusted people to reach out to, and emergency contacts.
Stay present: this may be the most important step. Make sure they are safe in the moment, and continue to show up for them over time. Their actions often reflect a deep need for connection, and your presence can make a difference.
Take care of one another. Have a safe week, and remember, you are not alone.