To The Person I Saw Crying, I Hope You Feel Better

Witnessing A Moment Of Emotion On My Commute

On my way to work today, while sitting at the red light, I looked over and saw the driver in the car next to me crying. I don't know the reason they were crying, but if it was sadness, I hope things get better.

The Overwhelming Stress Of Daily Life

Life can feel incredibly overwhelming just existing on your own, but work and family stress can make it seem impossible — and that's only scratching the surface. Perhaps that person in the car next to me had just gotten some good news, and those were tears of joy. Sadly, here in Montana, those tears often come from pain and loneliness, as too many under the Big Sky suffer in silence.

Montana’s Long Struggle With Mental Health

For far too many years Montana has ranked either at the top or near the top of all states in America for suicide rates. It's not just Montana either, as many of the Rocky Mountain states, such as Wyoming, have also suffered higher suicide rates than those of other states. Is it because of our more rural communities leading to fewer social connections, is it the higher ownership of guns leading to easier access, or is it perhaps the lack of economic opportunity? Honestly, no one really knows the answer to why it's such an issue here, but there are people trying to help. Check out the 988 Lifeline website for help and more information here. Finally, to the person I saw earlier today, I want to once again wish you better days.