What If You Could Be the Reason Someone Chose to Live?
What if Your Best Friend Died by Suicide Tomorrow?
When we think of mental health advocacy, it’s easy to picture people standing at podiums, writing powerful books, or launching campaigns that reach thousands. And while those actions certainly make a difference, there’s something equally impactful—and far more accessible—that each one of us can do to support mental health. Believe it or not, the smallest gestures can have a huge impact on those struggling and those offering support. I’ve been on either end of a small gesture. And it likely saved my life. Imagine if becoming a mental health champion didn’t require grand gestures, but simply showing up with kindness and consistency.
The Power of Checking In
The most meaningful actions are often the simplest ones. Just checking in on someone—a quick text, a call, or even a heartfelt email—can create a ripple effect. It lets people know they’re seen, valued, and cared for. There’s a misconception that checking in means prying or asking deeply personal questions, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Sometimes, a simple “Hey, just thinking about you. Hope all is well” is all it takes. Reaching out in this way shows that someone is thinking of them without expecting anything in return.
Imagine the difference it could make if we each took a few minutes every day to check in on a friend, family member, or colleague. These gestures may seem small to us, but they can feel monumental to someone going through a difficult time. And if enough of us start doing this, we create a web of connection and support that’s hard to break.
Being a Mental Health Champion in Everyday Moments
Being a mental health champion doesn’t require a title or a position. Here are some other ways you can make a difference, starting today:
Be Present and Listen Without Judgment
It’s amazing how rare it is to feel genuinely heard. When you’re talking with someone who’s struggling, try to focus on listening without offering immediate advice or solutions. Sometimes, people just need to vent or share without feeling judged or fixed. Showing up with patience and empathy, even if all you can say is, “That sounds really tough,” can be incredibly validating.
Create a Safe Environment
Fostering a supportive atmosphere can make all the difference, Whether at work, at home, or among friends. For instance, you could advocate for mental health days at work or simply say, “It’s okay to take a break.” Creating spaces where people feel safe to express themselves without fear of judgment or stigma is one of the simplest ways to contribute to a mentally healthy environment.
Encourage Open Conversations
Mental health conversations don’t need to be uncomfortable or intense. In fact, they can be as casual as asking, “How are you really doing?” or “Is there anything you want to talk about?” The more we normalize talking about mental health, the easier it becomes for everyone to feel comfortable sharing. By asking thoughtful questions and encouraging open conversations, we create a culture that embraces honesty over silence.
Share Your Own Experiences
Sometimes, sharing your own experiences—whether they’re related to stress, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed—can be incredibly powerful. It helps to remind people that they’re not alone and that we all face mental health challenges at times. This isn’t about making the conversation about you but about helping others feel less isolated. When you’re open about your own struggles, you give others permission to do the same.
Celebrate Small Wins
Mental health journeys are often filled with small victories; celebrating them can make a significant difference. If someone shares that they got out of bed, went for a walk, or managed a tough day, acknowledge it. These small wins are steps toward healing, and recognizing them can help reinforce positive progress. A simple “I’m proud of you” or “That’s great to hear” shows you’re genuinely invested in their journey.
The Ripple Effect of Small Gestures
Each of these actions might seem small on its own, but together, they create an impact that’s hard to ignore. The beauty of becoming a mental health champion through small gestures is that it’s accessible to everyone. We don’t need special training or a certain level of expertise; we just need a genuine desire to support the people around us.
Over the last month or two, I’ve had hundreds of private messages from across the LinkedIn community, supporting the need for greater attention to mental and emotional health within our school curriculum. Many people believe that change won’t come from government or school administrators but from mental health champions and advocates—many of whom have been deeply affected by the loss or near loss of someone close to them from suicide. This movement doesn’t begin with moving mountains. It starts with the tiniest, most sincere gestures. It’s a pebble that gains momentum. So many have asked me how they can help or get involved. It starts with self-awareness and checking in on those closest to us. If everyone were to check in on three people, what kind of difference could we make?
A Challenge to Start Small, Think Big
If you’re feeling inspired, angry, or frustrated but don’t know where to begin, start with just one person. Reach out, check-in, and ask how they’re doing. Pay attention to your conversations and see if there’s an opportunity to listen without judgment or celebrate a small victory. As you take these small steps, you’ll notice a shift in those around you and yourself. Being there for others is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling ways to make a difference.
And before you think, "There goes Chris on one of his crusades again," just take a moment to reflect: What if your best friend died by suicide tomorrow? What if you assumed they were fine and didn’t reach out? Imagine if it were your sibling or your child. Let that sit with you before dismissing this simple gesture. Sometimes, it takes a small act to change someone’s story. The reality is this happens every single day. Could you live with yourself if you could’ve made a difference?
So, the next time you wonder how you can contribute to mental health advocacy, remember: What if you could be the reason someone chose to live?
