Video Transcription

“Thank you, you saved my life” Lauren’s story

So, when I was about 14, I really started to struggle with mental illness and self-harm. It was scary, really scary, especially at a time when, you know, I’m a teenage girl, and I’m going through the normal things that a teenage girl goes through. To have those experiences on top of everything else was really challenging. It impacted my whole life, my family, and my loved ones as well. It was a really difficult time.

My best friend was definitely the strongest foundation throughout my really hard times. The conversation we’d often have was that she would say, “I don’t know what you’re going through, but you’re not alone.” That was definitely what got me through—knowing that even though she didn’t understand, she was still there through all of it. Whether it was just sitting with me while I cried or while I spoke, it was a really safe space for me. The powerful thing was having that safe space meant that in those times when I was really struggling, I would reach out to her, and that’s really what kept me safe.

I’ve said it a few times to her, and it’s, “Thank you. You saved my life, and I’m here now because of you.” And with my dad, he’s been a very steady and strong foundation for me. I think having that, knowing that no matter what happens, no matter what I did, no matter how badly I felt, even if I kind of mucked up, I always had my dad who would be that strong foundation for me. Even if, again, he didn’t understand—and he said that often—he was always that kind of consistent, strong foundation for me.

So, to anyone who’s struggling right now, the first thing I want you to know is that you’re not alone, and it’s actually okay to not be okay. The biggest piece of advice I’d give you is to reach out. It’s okay to ask for support.

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