If, while reading this story, you found yourself looking in a mirror; if you know the weight of the "mask" or the sound of the "static" described in these pages, please listen to this:
Depression is a liar.
It lied to the girl in this story. It told her she was a burden. It told her that her silence was a kindness. It told her that the world would be lighter without her.
But as you have seen, the silence she left behind was the heaviest thing of all.
You are not a burden. You are an anchor for someone else, even if you can't feel the rope right now. Your absence will not fix anything; it will only create a hole that can never be filled.
Do not follow the Rules in this book. Break them. Be a burden. Make a mess. Scream if you have to. Tell someone about the gray days.
There is no "clean" way to leave, but there is a brave way to stay. Please, stay. The static does not last forever, but you need to be here to see it clear.
If you are struggling, please reach out. You are not alone.
USA/Canada: Call or text 988.
International: Please contact your local emergency services or suicide prevention hotline immediately.