The first time she used the internet was to search for how to do it and make it look accidental. What she found changed her path forever. This short story is offered to de-stigmatize mental illness. If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or you know someone who has withdrawn and seems to be in a dark place, read this.

The author shared openly about her experience in an interview with Inner Healers at BlogTalkRadio. She has taken a stand for her family: suicide is not an option. She has dedicated herself to preventing suicide attempts in her family, which has a genetic disposition toward brain disorders that cause chronic despair and feelings of worthlessness. Her schizophrenic brother committed suicide in 1983; her aunt and grandmother died by suicide; her mother, nieces, and nephews have attempted suicide or seriously thought about it; her mother, brother, and sister have been diagnosed with bipolar mood disorder. Carma has first hand experience about the stigma of reaching for help from a mental health professional or taking an anti-depressant. The world must learn that it is no different than seeing a doctor for diabetes!