Nashville, Tennessee: A Message of Hope and Resilience on World Suicide Prevention Day
In the vibrant city of Nashville, the community came together recently to observe World Suicide Prevention Day, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness. One remarkable story that resonated with many was that of Sherilyn Duckworth, a local woman who has turned her life-altering experiences into a powerful message of hope and advocacy.
A Journey Through Darkness
At just 15 years old, Duckworth faced unimaginable struggles, resorting to self-harm as a way to cope with her internal pain. “I had started cutting my left wrist,” she shared, reflecting on the difficult period of her life. “As crazy as it sounds, no one noticed the scratches on my arm, or if they did notice, they didn’t have the tools that they needed to actually ask me how I was doing.”
Months later, Duckworth made a life-altering decision in a moment of despair—she attempted to take her own life. Thankfully, she survived, a twist of fate that she now credits to the quick actions of a close friend who didn’t take her words lightly. “If it wasn’t for her really taking me seriously and calling my dad, I wouldn’t be here 20 years later,” she remarked with gratitude.
Facing the Stigma of Mental Health
After her near-death experience, Duckworth began to seek help and was diagnosed with depression. However, getting the support she needed proved to be challenging due to systemic barriers. “My mom couldn’t afford to take off her work to take me to see my adolescent counselor,” she explained, reminiscing about her upbringing in the Black Belt region of Alabama, known for its economic struggles. “Suicide as well as mental health were taboo subjects in black communities.”
For over 15 years, Duckworth battled depression alone, grappling with what she calls the “dark assassin.” Today, at 35, she continues to manage her mental health with a mix of therapy and medication, stating, “I take four different medications, and I still get suicidal thoughts, even when I’m feeling good.” The struggle is ongoing, but Duckworth finds strength in her journey by helping others.
Creating Change Through Advocacy
This personal journey fueled Duckworth’s passion for advocacy, leading her to create a nonprofit called A Friend of Mind. The organization offers resources through yoga, meditation, and journaling, providing adolescents with healthy coping mechanisms. “It’s a way to give adolescents an outlet to cope with their mental illnesses,” Duckworth explained.
Her mission? To normalize conversations about mental health, particularly in communities where these discussions are often stigmatized. “I’m supposed to be here,” she said firmly. “One of my purposes for being here is to share my story and to encourage others to speak about their own experiences.”
Understanding the Impact of Suicide
The impact of suicide is staggering. According to a recent report, over 1,000 lives are lost to suicide each year in Tennessee alone, and the state’s mortality rate of 17.7 in 2022 was 19% higher than the national average. The need for open dialogue, education, and accessible resources has never been more critical.
Duckworth emphasizes that suicide is preventable and encourages those feeling hopeless and alone to reach out for help. “You are not alone in this struggle of feeling unloved and worthless. There’s help available,” she reassures.
How to Help Yourself or a Loved One
Duckworth shares important steps to take for suicide prevention, highlighting the value of awareness, communication, and connection. Community efforts to provide support can make a significant difference in someone’s life.
For anyone feeling overwhelmed, remember: support is available 24/7. Together, we can create a community of compassion, understanding, and hope—making strides to ensure that no one feels alone in their journey.
