The photos on these billboards when I first saw them just kind of meant a lot to me, I could relate. They are about depression and how it can be deadly or like fatal if untreated, you just want to be sure you know the signs and get diagnosed before that happens. The one on the road is the one that means the most to me. It read depression #1 cause of suicide, I drive by it a lot. I look at it and smile, not in a morbid way. It’s not a laughing matter, but the fact that seeing that, I am happy that I am still here and alive. I am happy where I am in life, grateful to be at NDSU, and have a supportive family. A year ago I probably couldn’t say the same. I was hospitalized a couple times for suicidal ideations and having a plan to check out early. I didn’t know there was still hope. But with a lot of hard work, new meds, new dosages, and finding a good support system. Just last year, a lot of different pieces were put together and I am able to smile about where I am now. That’s why when I see those it is significant, I have been there but was able to turn around and continue with life.
I think saying it and putting it out there makes people more aware that it’s more common than some can think.