My guest blogger is Nikita Danielle.

Today I celebrate life. Today I celebrate me. 26 years ago today I attempted to end my life but God decided it wasn’t my time. Here I stand today continuing to fight.

Living with a mental illness is a full-time job. I require medicine to manage my moods. I struggle with anxiety. At times the memories of past trauma bring me to my knees. God gives me the strength to keep fighting. I would not be who I am today without his Grace and Mercy.

Has it been easy? No. Have I wanted to give up? Yes. My life is worth fighting for (and so is yours). I will never give up; giving up isn’t an option.

I’m not ashamed of my mental illness.

I’m ashamed of those who contribute

to the stigma that steals so many

beautiful souls away from us

every single day.

Ignorance is shameful, not the way I was made.

-Hannah Blum

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please seek help. Below is a list of resources. Also, go to this page if you are depressed or anxious; this page if you are abused; or go to this page for recovery references. Remember, there is 24/7 support.

Today’s Helpful Word

Job 33:4
The Spirit of God has made me;
    the breath of the Almighty gives me life.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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