I vaguely remember the summer day when I got the call from our class president,

informing me that a classmate of mine had committed suicide. My parents were there in the kitchen when I took the call, and they understood from my end of the conversation and the look on my face that something was wrong. When I got off the phone, I told them what had happened. I do not know the circumstances behind my classmate’s death, but whatever was going on had to have been something very bad. Many bad things happen that may make people want to take their lives. They might lose their job, break up with a boyfriend or girlfriend, lose their house and belongings in a fire, or lose a pet, close friend, or family member, for example. They might not know how to cope with such a difficult experience, and rather than staying strong, they might instead want to take drastic measures to solve their problems. If you are ever tempted to commit suicide, don’t. Instead, find healthy ways to deal with your situation.

One way to stay strong is to take care of yourself. If you feel good, you will be strong. You will be able to think clearly, which will help you to come up with good solutions to your problems. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, and get enough sleep.

A second way to cope is to release. It is normal to feel anger and sadness after a difficult experience. Rather than keeping these feelings inside, however, let them out. Cry, punch a punching bag, run, or write in a journal, for example. Allow yourself to let out your feelings, and you will begin to heal.

A third way to handle a difficult situation is to talk with someone. Find someone you are comfortable with, such as a counselor, friend, or relative, and tell him what is on your mind. Do not be afraid to cry. It will take some time, but after your talk, you should begin to feel better.

I remember my classmate as an honor graduate and a fun-loving guy. He is gone, but he will live on in my mind and heart for the rest of my life. It is my hope that this article will help many people out there who are struggling with their own troubling issues so that they, too, will choose to live. Life is not always perfect. There are many difficult situations that come up and that must be worked through, but the hard times will not last. Be patient, and wait. Good times will come.