Blog, Mental Health

You Are Not Alone: Building Your Support System

Often, someone may contemplate suicide because they feel as though they are alone.

They feel alone during struggles they assume they’ll never successfully overcome. They feel alone because they believe they should be ashamed or embarrassed about certain situations they’re experiencing. They feel alone because they’re afraid of what others may think or say. They feel alone simply because they don’t have a great support system– rightfully so. They may even feel alone because they believe they can’t ask for help, regardless of the severity of their circumstances.

Sadly, this is such an unfortunate feeling for anyone to ever experience. Especially with all that continues to go on in this world, no one should ever have to feel like they’re facing everything alone.

We all should be able to have a great support system when we need it the most. A support system that’s a judgment-free zone. A healthy support system that we can trust, confide in, and count on. Everyone deserves a great team backing them during the most difficult times of their lives- one filled with love, nurturance, understanding, patience, and great spirits.

Then again, there are times when some of us do have amazing support systems, and we still experience loneliness.

As someone who has considered or attempted suicide numerous times, I can honestly say that my support system has always been there and overly supportive. It includes my loving family, close friends, associates, and Cherry and the Hoot fans.

The times I felt the loneliest were the moments when I didn’t want to bother anyone with my problems. I didn’t want my troubles to become their troubles. I didn’t want to hear the cliché, “You’re strong,” or “Everyone is going through something.” Furthermore, I didn’t want them to worry about me because, yes, I fully understood the “Everyone is going through something” comment.

So I dealt with my struggles in silence.

And sometimes, that’s what loneliness can look like.

It’s not always having nobody.

Sometimes, it’s having people who love you and still feeling like you can’t reach out to them.

There are times when I come across individuals who share that they don’t have many people to support them, and it breaks my heart. I truly wish everyone could experience the loving and amazing people in my life- especially my family.

I can tell you from personal experience that I’m beyond grateful for the lifelong, family-like friendships I’ve created over the years. I’m truly blessed beyond measure!

Although my support system is mostly family, I’m aware that not everyone comes from a loving or close-knit family. In this case, I would recommend adopting coworkers, neighbors, classmates, and other positive people who cross your path- with good judgment, of course!

Some of the greatest people who cross our paths aren’t always bonded to us by blood, but by unconditional love, genuine connection, and happiness. There are plenty of individuals out here who are just waiting with open arms to welcome you and walk with you every step of the way- myself included.

We should all surround ourselves with people who express good and positive energy.

Those who take the time to listen without judgment.

Those whose healthy habits we admire and hope to inherit.

Those who are able to relate to our difficulties and setbacks.

Those who are willing to offer healthy advice and suggestions for the better.

Those who remind us that we are not alone- because we aren’t.

I pray that each person reading this who feels alone at this very moment can find the strength to keep going.

I pray that you know it’s okay to ask for help.

There is no need to feel ashamed regardless of what you’re going through.

And if you don’t have the support system you wish you had right now, I hope you know that doesn’t mean you have to remain alone. Sometimes, building your village takes time. Sometimes, it starts with one person. Sometimes, it starts with simply saying, “I need help.”

You don’t have to carry everything by yourself.

You are worthy of support. You are worthy of love. You are worthy of being here.

Much Love, Hooters,

Love, CC


If you’re experiencing thoughts of suicide or feel that you may hurt yourself, you don’t have to face that moment alone.

Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can also reach out to someone you trust or seek immediate help through 911 or your nearest emergency department if you’re in immediate danger.

Asking for help isn’t weakness.

Sometimes, asking for help is how we stay.