Yes, I agree. I’ve lost many friends and acquaintances over the years due to mental health and substance abuse problems, and it highlights to me how much more systemic support and education we need. I hope we are now beginning to see a shift toward more holistic and preventative care, as our society so urgently needs it.

I am so sorry about the loss of your daughter. Thank you for sharing your story and for working to help spread advocacy. These issues need to be destigmatized and understood to be flaws rooted in society more than in the individual.