Say Hello to the New You Matter Blogger Council

Summer is officially over, and it’s time to thank the amazing bloggers– Anna, Detrick, Lindsey, Maya, Megan and Samantha— who spent their breaks writing about what it’s like after a suicide attempt, how texting a friend can save a life, and of course, the death of Robin Williams.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline must have some really great karma, because we’ve found another group of talented and passionate young adults to share their stories about mental health and suicide prevention. #blessed (That’s still a thing, right?)

Please welcome the 2014 Fall You Matter and tell them what you want to read about this fall on the You Matter blog.

Christopher

23, Michigan

I’m interning for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention while a student Central Michigan University. I hope become a counselor after I graduate. I am also volunteering as a sexual assault advocate in my spare time. When I have nothing to do, I like to work out, watch Netflix, read, play video games, and hang out with friends.

Why Christopher Matters: Back when I was depressed, when I had thoughts of suicide, I never thought I would be where I am today. I want to help people realize that everyone has potential to be great and to show people that they matter.

Erin

18, Georgia

“I’m a psychology major at the University of Georgia. One day I hope to work as a mental health professional doing research to support the reduction of the high suicide rates in our young people.”

Why Erin Matters: I genuinely care about the people around me and even those who aren’t around me. I go out of my way to ensure that the ones I love know they are also very loved and that they matter.

Kristin (and her dog Spook)

21, Georgia

I’m a junior at the University of Maryland University College majoring in Psychology. I also work at a bookstore part-time. I am very compassionate and enjoy working with animals, reading, and all things Disney.

Why Kristin Matters: I have struggled with depression for several years now and just recently realized it can be more of a blessing than a curse if you allow it to be. I hope to show others that their struggles only make them a more beautiful person, not a broken one.

Jesse

21, Washington

I’m finishing up my prerequisites before I apply to the University of Washington. I enjoy volunteering at the Tacoma Rainbow Center, and planning fundraisers for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Why Jesse Matters: Recovering from my suicidal thoughts, and managing my depression has been a rough journey, but I am finally in a place where I strive to reach out and help others.

Sharon

22, Illinois

I’m pursing degrees in psychology and communication at Aurora University as well as training to become a peer support specialist. I am proud to work with NAMI DuPage, my local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. My other passion is performing, teaching and directing theatre.

Why Sharon Matters: I’m fighting the stigma of mental illness by speaking in my community about my experience with bipolar disorder. Only by sharing our stories can we begin to foster understanding

Yordy

13, Florida

I’m the founding president of the only middle school HOPE Club program (the other 15 are in high schools and colleges). Last summer I traveled to Switzerland as part of a U.S. delegation. We met teen delegates from five other countries and realized that we all face similar challenges. I’m the eldest of five, was born in Costa Rica, and enjoy tennis, reading, and writing.

Why Yordy Matters: My dedication to suicide prevention was first ignited after seeing a documentary at school. My uncle died from suicide and I now realize how pointless and preventable it was.