Seize the awkward

In July of 2021, my nephew Connor died by suicide.

He had just turned 26.

He was absolutely hilarious. One time, when the whole family was out to dinner, Connor showed up with only the left side of his face shaved. I saw it right away, but because he was so blond, and his mustache and beard were barely peach fuzz on a good day, it took his parents and Grandpa most of dinner to notice. Meanwhile, we were laughing off and on all throughout, and getting sideways glances from everyone at the table. Every day I think of him. Every day I think of and pray for my sister and her family who are living without him.

He was a jokester. A musician, and a poet. A deeply spiritual seeker.

And he was suffering from Primary Progressive MS, which was ravaging him.

We see the effects of people struggling with their mental health everywhere, but we don't always understand them. Everyone needs to think about their mental health, and it's important to do so at all ages, from childhood to adulthood. And every day, it impacts how we think, feel, and act. It also affects how we deal with stress, get along with other people, and make decisions.

Having conversations around mental health can sometimes be uncomfortable, but it can also make a big difference. Not sure where to start? Visit seize the awkward for ideas on how to start the conversation.