To prioritize the search for better treatments for mental health conditions, de-stigmatize seeking treatment, and reduce the number of people lost to suicide in our country, we need everyone to be better informed and engaged.

My personal awareness and better understanding about mental health issues began when I met my wife Angela, whose single mother was diagnosed with bipolar 1 with schizoaffective disorder many years ago. On our first date, Angela shared with me that she was only three when she first witnessed one of her mom’s episodes. So Angela grew up as daughter, caretaker, and advocate to her mom. And because her mom’s illness wasn’t visible, most people had a hard time understanding. That’s not surprising.

As a society, we don’t talk enough or openly enough about conditions like depression, addiction, anxiety, or trauma, let alone acknowledging thoughts about suicide. We must change that.

It’s time to normalize open, honest conversations about suicide so those in need of help can come forward and find it; and those who can provide help to someone experiencing a crisis get the tools and skills they need to do so.